TUKO.co.ke journalist Ivan Mboto has over three years of experience reporting on politics and current affairs in Kenya

Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua has declared that his political camp would defeat President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election, regardless of whether ODM leader Raila Odinga joined them.

Speaking during a church service at the Gospel Confirmation Center in Machakos, Gachagua criticised Ruto’s leadership and dismissed the notion that Raila’s support was necessary for his camp’s victory.

"We told William Ruto we would make him president. And we did. Then he turned his back against us, and we part ways with him. We are now in a new formation. Even if Raila Odinga wants to partner with us, there is no problem. Our journey is unstoppable with or without him," Gachagua said.

Gachagua added that the opposition is not desperate for Raila's support, asserting that the numbers are good regardless of his input.

"And we are not desperate for his participation. The numbers are good. We have interrogated our numbers and they are good. So it (defeating Ruto in 2027) will be an easy task," Gachagua said.

Gachagua further took an aim at the president, arguing that the head of state's political survival was currently reliant on Raila's influence.

He argued that without the ODM leader’s backing, the president’s influence would crumble.

“The president's current life support is Raila Odinga. If we switch it off, it will be the end of Ruto,” he declared.

Gachagua also declared that the Gikuyu, Embu, Meru, and Akamba (GEMA) communities will be at the forefront of forming Kenya’s next government.

He expressed confidence in GEMA’s political strength, emphasising that their unity would shape the country’s leadership in the coming years.

“GEMA is the key to Kenya’s future. GEMA will form the next government,” he stated, assuring his supporters that their numbers were strong enough to secure victory. “We have analysed the figures, and they look good—with or without Raila,” he added.

Gachagua added that in 2027 General Election, Ruto will finish in third or fourth position. In contrast, Gachagua argued that their unity would secure power for generations to come.

“If we stand together as GEMA, we will be in power for the next 100 years,” he declared.

Gachagua had previously called on Raila to consider aligning with the opposition to unseat Ruto in the 2027 General Election.

Speaking at his Karen residence during an interview with Kamba vernacular radio stations on February 24, Gachagua said he was open to working with Raila, emphasising that their combined efforts could mobilise Kenyans against the current administration.

The invitation comes as Gachagua builds a new political outfit following his impeachment in October 2024, having already met with opposition figures like Kalonzo Musyoka and Martha Karua.

Source: TUKO.co.ke