Nairobi, Kenya – Political tensions in Kenya have intensified as former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua publicly challenged President William Ruto, signaling a potential realignment in the country’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Gachagua, now leading the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), accused the Ruto administration of attempting to split the Mt. Kenya region into “East” and “West” voting blocs to dilute the influence of his traditional support base.
Speaking to large crowds in Nyeri and surrounding counties, he criticized what he described as “youthful and inexperienced” advisors who, he claims, are undermining senior leaders and the cohesion of the governing United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
The former deputy president’s tour has reached the Rift Valley, a region historically aligned with Ruto, where supporters have rallied under the chant “WANTAM,” a movement reflecting rising local discontent. Analysts say the public displays suggest a possible erosion of Ruto’s support among key constituencies.
Political observers note that the feud represents a departure from past coalition politics, with rhetoric escalating from policy critique to personal attacks.
“The Gachagua-Ruto split is likely to dominate the narrative in the run-up to 2027, influencing both party strategy and voter sentiment,” said political analyst Jane Wanjiku of the Kenya Institute for Policy Research.
The UDA has remained largely silent in response, focusing on internal party consolidation and outreach initiatives, while Gachagua leverages his regional stronghold to expand national visibility.
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