Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has officially declared his intention to run for president in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during an interview with Weru TV on Sunday night, Gachagua dismissed claims that his 2024 impeachment would disqualify him from contesting for any elective position.
“Before my case reaches the Supreme Court, I will vie for the presidency — and I will win with a huge margin,” Gachagua asserted.
He explained that, under Kenyan law, he remains eligible to contest as long as his legal case is still pending and has not been concluded by the Supreme Court.
“The law is clear — you have the right to contest if your case is pending in court and has not yet been determined by the Supreme Court,” Gachagua said.
He cited the case of John Waluke, who, despite being sentenced to 74 years, successfully contested and won the Sirisia parliamentary seat after being released on bond.
“The Court of Appeal later overturned Waluke’s case. As long as all legal processes are not exhausted, you are free to vie. My case hasn’t even started yet,” he added.
Addressing the growing list of opposition leaders eyeing the presidency, Gachagua noted that they would all continue campaigning independently until a consensus is reached on a single candidate to face President William Ruto.
Currently, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, PLP leader Martha Karua, and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i have all declared their intentions to run for president.
“Everyone — Karua, Kalonzo, Matiang’i, Wamalwa, and myself — will campaign until the final moment. We will then come together to decide on one flagbearer. If it is not me, I will support whoever is chosen,” Gachagua stated.
“This man [President Ruto] must be sent home. The strategy will involve each candidate presenting their strengths to guarantee a 70+1 percent win. We will issue a joint statement, committing to rally behind one candidate for the sake of Kenyans.”
Gachagua’s announcement comes amid reports that he was recently excluded from a meeting of opposition aspirants allegedly held at the Ichaweri home of former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
