Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has launched what he describes as extensive consultations with grassroots opinion leaders across the country as he seeks to shape a governance agenda anchored on public participation ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Mr Gachagua on Monday said he had held talks with opinion leaders from Nyandarua County, the first group in a series of consultations he plans to conduct nationwide.
"I have started extensive consultations with grassroots opinion leaders on the liberation of our country as promised and advised by the people," he said.
The former deputy president said his governance model would be guided by the views of ordinary Kenyans, arguing that sovereignty rests with the people under the Constitution.
"Our governance module in the next administration is strongly anchored on listening to the people, whom our Constitution vests supremacy onto," he said.
Mr Gachagua thanked the Nyandarua leaders for their insights, saying their views would guide his engagement with other leaders and stakeholders across the country.
The consultations come as the former deputy president continues to position himself as a key opposition figure following his fallout with President William Ruto's administration and subsequent impeachment in 2024.
His latest political outreach coincides with growing public concern over the high cost of living, rising public debt, unemployment and corruption. Kenyans have also voiced concerns over increased taxation, the affordability of basic commodities and the management of public resources.
Political analysts say such issues are likely to dominate discussions as opposition leaders seek to tap into public dissatisfaction ahead of the next election cycle.
Mr Gachagua has in recent months intensified criticism of the Kenya Kwanza administration, accusing it of failing to address the economic challenges facing households and businesses.
The former deputy president served as Deputy President from September 2022 until his impeachment in October 2024. Lawmakers who supported his removal accused him of violating the Constitution, promoting divisive politics and undermining collective government responsibility. He denied the allegations and has maintained that his ouster was politically motivated.
As he builds alliances and expands his political footprint beyond the Mount Kenya region, Mr Gachagua says the consultations will continue across the country.
"Extensive consultations continue. God bless Nyandarua, God bless Kenya," he said.
