Did Rigathi Gachagua Hint at Supporting Kalonzo Musyoka for President?

By Kiambu Daily News | May 29, 2025
In a bold political move that could reshape alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua led a high-powered delegation to Tseikuru, Muuna in Kitui County — the rural home of former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka.
The visit, which has been dubbed “The Tseikuru Declaration,” came just weeks after Kalonzo and a group of opposition leaders visited Gachagua at his home in Wamunyoro, Nyeri. This return visit, rich in tradition and symbolism, is now being interpreted as a significant political signal.
Cultural Symbolism and Political Undertones
Gachagua’s entourage included elected and non-elected leaders from the Mt. Kenya region, with notable opposition figures like Eugene Wamalwa, Peter Munya, JB Muturi and Mithika Linturi in attendance. The event was marked by traditional African customs — Gachagua presented goats to Kalonzo as a sign of respect, while women from Mt. Kenya, led by Pastor Dorcas Gachagua, brought gifts and foodstuffs, a traditional expression of peace and alliance.
Ukambani musicians performed songs praising Kalonzo as their “kingpin,” calling on the Kamba community to back his 2027 presidential ambitions. One resounding theme echoed across all performances: “It is time for Kalonzo.”
Mt. Kenya and Ukambani: A New Alliance?
In a symbolic ceremony, members of the Kikuyu Council of Elders Women’s Chapter asked Ukambani women for permission to “go with Kalonzo” — signaling a possible political partnership across regions. The gesture was met with cheers and applause from the crowd.
When local leaders spoke, the message was consistent: disappointment with the current regime and belief that President William Ruto is unlikely to secure a second term. The crowd’s greeting chant spoke volumes:
“Harambee!”
“One Term!” (the crowd replied)
Kalonzo Defends Rigathi, Declares Readiness to Lead
Taking the podium, Kalonzo Musyoka revisited his legacy as Vice President under President Mwai Kibaki, saying he is ready to “take charge and fix the nation.” He also defended Rigathi Gachagua amid reported threats of arrest.
“If you dare arrest Rigathi, we will take you home even before 2027,”
– Kalonzo Musyoka warned.
Rigathi Gachagua’s Passionate Endorsement?
Rigathi Gachagua’s address was fiery and full of praise for Kalonzo and the Kamba community:
“We will give Kalonzo the respect he deserves… Support him; he has what it takes to be a national leader.”
Gachagua went further, urging the Kamba community to register as voters, promising that they would not betray Kalonzo:
“Unless he changes his mind, we will not betray him.”
He closed his speech with a bold prediction:
“President Ruto’s time in State House is over. 2027 is far — we wish the elections were tomorrow to take him home.”
A 2027 Battle in the Making?
While neither Gachagua nor Kalonzo officially announced a coalition, the Tseikuru Declaration has all the hallmarks of an early campaign launch. With campaign tones already setting in and political blocs taking shape, it is only a matter of time before the structures of both camps are unveiled.
Will this Mt. Kenya–Ukambani alliance hold the key to unseating President Ruto in 2027? Kenya watches and waits.
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