Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has dismissed claims of a widening rift within the opposition coalition, accusing the government of orchestrating a narrative to pit him against Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka.
Speaking during a tour of Machakos, Gachagua said the opposition remained united and focused on holding the administration accountable, insisting that reports of discord were “manufactured to weaken the alternative voice Kenyans rely on.”
He accused senior government officials of deliberately spreading rumours to “drive a wedge” between him and Kalonzo, saying the two leaders continued to consult closely on political and national issues. “Those in government must stop imagining they can divide us,” he said. “Our unity is intact, and no amount of propaganda will break it.”
Gachagua argued that attempts to destabilise the opposition reflected growing discomfort within President William Ruto’s administration, which he claimed was uneasy with the coalition’s rising influence ahead of the 2027 polls. He said Kenyans deserved a strong, cohesive opposition that could offer credible oversight, particularly as the cost of living crisis and governance challenges persisted.
Opposition lawmakers accompanying him echoed the remarks, saying state operatives were increasingly attempting to infiltrate and undermine their ranks. They vowed to remain firm and accused the government of using “old tactics” to distract from its failures.
Gachagua urged supporters to ignore the “noise,” insisting the coalition’s leadership was focused on unity, mobilisation and presenting a credible alternative to the Kenya Kwanza government.
