In a dramatic twist that has sent shockwaves through Kenya’s political corridors, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and veteran politician Martha Karua have set aside their past rivalries to explore a potential political partnership. This unprecedented move is being closely watched, as it could significantly alter the trajectory of the 2027 elections.
From Foes to Allies: The Unexpected Turn
Once fierce adversaries in the 2022 general elections, Gachagua and Karua now appear to be reading from the same script. The duo recently held a closed-door meeting at Karua’s Gichugu home in Kirinyaga County, igniting speculation about a grand political realignment within the Mt. Kenya region. Sources close to the talks describe the discussions as “serious and strategic,” focusing on regional unity and governance concerns.
“We may have been on different sides before, but the interests of the people must come first,” Karua hinted in a cryptic statement after the meeting. Gachagua, on his part, remained characteristically guarded but acknowledged the need for a united front to secure Mt. Kenya’s bargaining power.
The Bigger Picture: 2027 and Beyond
Insiders suggest that this newfound camaraderie could be the foundation for a broader coalition to challenge President William Ruto’s administration in the next election. With murmurs of dissatisfaction within Kenya Kwanza and a restless opposition, Gachagua and Karua’s pact—if it materializes—could be a game-changer.
Karua, a seasoned reformist and the face of Kenya’s democratic struggles, brings credibility and a formidable grassroots following. Gachagua, despite being Ruto’s deputy, has recently distanced himself from some of the administration’s policies, signaling discontent within the ruling party’s ranks.
Political analysts predict that if the two leaders formalize their collaboration, it could lead to a powerful Mt. Kenya voting bloc that neither Ruto nor Raila Odinga can afford to ignore. “This is not just a handshake; it’s the beginning of a calculated power play,” noted political commentator Prof. Wanjiru Mugo.
Rebranding and Realignments
Adding fuel to the fire, Karua’s party, NARC-Kenya, has recently rebranded to the People’s Liberation Party (PLP), a move seen as part of a broader strategy to position itself for the 2027 race. She has not ruled out running for the presidency again but remains open to supporting a unified opposition candidate.
Meanwhile, murmurs within Kenya Kwanza suggest that Gachagua’s growing independence has unsettled some party insiders. His latest moves are being interpreted as an attempt to hedge his political bets in case of a fallout with Ruto.
As political temperatures rise, all eyes are on how this alliance will take shape. Will Gachagua break ranks with Ruto? Will Karua make another stab at the presidency? Or is this just the beginning of a larger realignment involving other key figures?
One thing is certain—Kenyan politics is as unpredictable as ever, and the Mt. Kenya chessboard is once again in motion.