Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has lauded Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka’s Ukambani political vet as the opposition chiefs beef up their strongholds ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

Speaking in a rally at Matuu in Machakos County on Friday, May 30, 2025, Gachagua declared that the Ukambani region remains firmly aligned with Kalonzo, praising the former Vice President’s influence and the political cohesion within the region.

“Today, I am a very happy man. I will sleep peacefully because Kalonzo has a solid base,” he told the crowd gathered in Matuu.

“Kalonzo is a serious leader, and whenever he gives political direction, his people listen.”

The Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader highlighted the strategic importance of Ukambani, noting its substantial voting numbers.

“Kalonzo is a serious leader, and whenever he gives political direction, his people listen,” Gachagua added.

Gachagua spent the night at Kalonzo’s Muuna residence in Mwingi, Kitui County, ahead of the mega rally. He used the opportunity to urge the Ukambani electorate to support the Wiper Democratic Movement exclusively in the next general election.

“In the 2027 elections, elect all leaders in Ukambani from the Wiper party to give Kalonzo a strong base,” he said. “If you elect leaders from many parties or independents, you will weaken Kalonzo’s authority at the negotiating table. Give him Wiper MPs only.”

Gachagua and Kalonzo have emerged as key figures in a growing coalition of opposition leaders. This alliance, which includes other political heavyweights such as DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa, aims to challenge President William Ruto’s administration and present a unified front in the 2027 polls.

Kalonzo, who has been a central figure in Kenyan politics for over two decades, confirmed that he had been endorsed by the Ukambani community to take a leading role in coalition talks.

“Yesterday (Thursday 29, 2025), I received an endorsement from my people to begin the journey to form the next government, and I am ready for the country’s top job,” he stated.

Wamalwa also voiced his support for Kalonzo, commending his consistency and leadership. “If Kalonzo says he will stand with you, he will give you his full support,” Wamalwa said during the tour.

The leaders’ visit to Matuu and the upcoming rally in Machakos are part of a broader mobilisation effort.

On Wednesday, May 28, 2025, they held closed-door talks in Tseikuru, Kitui County, focusing on strategy and unity within the opposition. Friday’s rally in Machakos will be the first time all key opposition figures, including Gachagua and Kalonzo, appear together publicly since formalising their working relationship.

This emerging coalition seeks to capitalise on discontent within certain regions and consolidate opposition strongholds, especially in Ukambani, to build momentum ahead of the national vote. The leaders have pledged to continue their tours across the country to engage with grassroots supporters and foster unity among opposition parties.

Friday’s rally will be closely watched as a bellwether for the effectiveness of the opposition’s joint strategy, particularly in regions considered swing areas or opposition bastions. As political alignments begin to crystallise, the coming months are likely to see increased activity and public engagements from both the opposition coalition and the ruling Kenya Kwanza alliance.