Rigathi Gachagua’s push to return to national leadership has unsettled leaders in both the United Opposition and the Linda Mwananchi, with senior figures in the two camps expressing deep reservations about his politics and leadership style.
Among the principals of the United Opposition, a common phrase has emerged. Gachagua’s usefulness in their political discourse is not rooted in intellectual or ideological contribution, but rather in his ability to verbally attack President William Ruto during political rallies.
According to insiders, this limited role confirms their belief that the former Deputy President lacks depth and strategic vision to lead a modern political movement.
Opposition leaders argue that Gachagua is abrasive and unrefined, describing him as “crude, unpolished, and lacking emotional intelligence.” This confrontational approach undermines efforts to build a broad-based coalition which has every Kenyan regardless of tribe.
“He is simply not sellable across the country,” one opposition strategist remarked, adding that “no Kenyan would want him back in leadership.”
This sentiment is not confined to the United Opposition. Within the Linda Mwananchi faction, similar fears have taken root. Leaders in the movement reportedly view Gachagua as a polarizing figure who is not trusted by a majority of Kenyans to lead.
Siaya Governor James Orengo, a prominent voice in the opposition, was unequivocal last week when asked about Gachagua’s suitability for national leadership.
“It would be a very big disappointment for the country if that were to happen,” Orengo said. The governor, who served as the Senate lawyer during Gachagua’s impeachment proceedings in October 2024, maintains that the former Deputy President lacks the moral and institutional grounding necessary to lead.
Gachagua’s impeachment, which followed allegations of gross misconduct in office, continues to cast a long shadow over his political future. Despite his attempts to reassert influence through the DCP party, Gachagua’s leadership style remains incompatible with the demands of a unifying national figure.
