NAIROBI — Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has dismissed claims that Kenya’s opposition is planning to seize power through unconstitutional means. Speaking Wednesday in Nairobi, Gachagua stated that the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) is focused on the 2027 general election and promoting democratic reforms.
“There is no leader in the opposition who is planning a coup. None has the capacity to do so,” Gachagua said during his public address. He stressed that recent allegations suggesting a power grab are baseless and politically motivated.
Gachagua called on the government to shift its focus to the issues affecting the public, especially the frustrations voiced by young people. He noted that the youth are demanding honest leadership, fair economic opportunities, and accountability from elected officials.
Opposition Pushes for Policy, Not Power
The DCP leader urged the administration to support the middle class, arguing that it plays a key role in driving the economy and creating jobs.
“If the middle class is empowered, young people will find opportunities. That’s where economic growth begins,” he said.
He also condemned the crackdown on demonstrators, saying the government should not silence citizens who are calling for transparency and fairness.
“Protesters are not criminals. They are raising genuine concerns about governance and the direction of the country,” he said.
U.S. Tour to Spotlight Kenya’s Challenges
Gachagua announced plans to begin a two-month visit to the United States, where he will meet Kenyans in the diaspora and speak to international partners about the country’s current state.
“I am traveling to the United States tonight to talk to the Kenyans in diaspora and the international community about the state of our nation,” he said. “I would have wanted to stay in the country at this time, but I have engagements which I am not able to postpone.”
The former Deputy President made it clear that the DCP is preparing for the ballot, not the back door as President Ruto had cited in recent remarks and warned against attempts to discredit the opposition through unfounded accusations.
As the political climate heats up ahead of 2027, Gachagua’s remarks appear aimed at distancing his party from any unrest while sharpening the opposition’s message around reforms and public accountability.
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