Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has pledged that the united opposition will field a single presidential candidate in the 2027 General Election, saying he is ready to sacrifice his personal ambitions to secure an agreement.
Speaking during a church service at St. Stephen’s ACK Church in Dracut, Massachusetts, United States, on Sunday, Gachagua assured Kenyans living in the diaspora that opposition leaders would agree on one candidate ahead of the polls.
“I want to assure the people, the candidate we shall pick, you people will be happy. And the day we announce that candidate, the elections will be won that day,” Gachagua told the congregation.
The former Deputy President said he would support whoever emerges as the opposition’s flag bearer, even if the coalition decides not to nominate him.
“But if it is not agreed that it is me, I will support the one who will be chosen over me, because we have no otherwise,” he said.
Gachagua warned opposition leaders against allowing personal ambitions and disagreements to undermine their efforts to present a united front in the 2027 elections.
“I can assure you that the Kenyan people cannot allow us the luxury of doing anything different. Tukikosa kusikizana watatutoa kwa nyumba zetu,” he said, suggesting that Kenyans would reject the opposition if its leaders failed to reach an agreement.
He urged Kenyans in the diaspora to continue praying for opposition leaders as they work towards building unity ahead of the elections.
“So, relax, pray for us, help us wherever you can and continue to live in peace and love. You stay together as Kenyans. Love one another, support one another,” Gachagua said.
Beyond the question of the opposition’s presidential candidate, Gachagua pledged to tackle corruption and create an environment that would encourage Kenyans living abroad to invest in the country.
He said concerns over corruption had discouraged some diaspora Kenyans from investing back home, despite their interest in contributing to the country’s economic development.
“I know many of you want to invest back home, but you are reluctant because you don’t want your money to be spent on corruption,” he said.
Gachagua’s remarks place opposition unity and the selection of a joint presidential candidate among the key issues facing opposition leaders as they prepare for the 2027 General Election.
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