Speaking during an interview with a local television station on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, the governor suggested that Sifuna could attract even greater political support if President William Ruto replaced Deputy President Kithure Kindiki with Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka as his running mate in the next election.
“The greatest engine of opposition is Sifuna. The way he has been framed by circumstances has made him appealing beyond his region. Therefore, if, say, Kindiki is replaced by Kalonzo, I won’t be surprised if Sifuna can get more numbers to fill up the potential gap coming out of that,” Kang’ata said.
His remarks come amid growing discussions about possible political realignments involving Sifuna, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Kalonzo as opposition leaders consider their options ahead of the 2027 polls.
Kang’ata Predicts Gachagua, Kalonzo and Sifuna Alliance
The Murang’a governor also suggested that an opposition alliance bringing together Gachagua, Kalonzo and Sifuna could consolidate support from several regions and become a significant political force.
He argued that the three leaders could bring together political constituencies associated with Mount Kenya, Lower Eastern, Western Kenya and regions that previously supported the late Raila Odinga.
“When you have Kalonzo, Gachagua, and Sifuna, that’s all. The three of them, once they come together, it’s a done deal,” he said.
Kang’ata described Gachagua, who leads the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), as a central figure in efforts to unite opposition leaders, particularly because of his influence in the Mount Kenya region.
“Riggy G is definitely the glue that holds the opposition together. If you want to become president, it definitely makes sense for you to look for Gachagua,” he stated.
The governor's assessment reflects his view of the political importance of regional alliances, although no formal agreement involving the three leaders has been announced.
Kang’ata Defends Gachagua Over Political Bullying Claims
Kang’ata also dismissed claims that Gachagua was a political bully, recalling an incident in Ol Kalou in which he said the former deputy president had warned him against attending an event where violence later occurred.
The governor said he ignored the warning and subsequently suffered injuries after being beaten.
He maintained that Gachagua had been truthful in advising him against attending the event, using the incident to challenge criticism directed at the former deputy president.
His comments add another dimension to the relationship between the two leaders as discussions about opposition unity continue.
Kang’ata Rules Out Deputy President Ambitions
On his own political future, Kang’ata ruled out pursuing a national leadership position, including that of Deputy President, saying his priority remained serving the people of Murang’a County.
“I do not want to become a DP for several reasons. I believe the issue is not about positions; it is about the platform — what do you want to do for the country?” he said.
The governor said he would rather share his policy ideas with opposition leaders, particularly on manufacturing, healthcare and education.
He criticised what he described as excessive taxation and regulation, arguing that the measures were placing pressure on industries and limiting economic activity.
Kang’ata confirmed that he would seek re-election as Murang’a governor in 2027, saying his campaign would focus on addressing poverty and presenting his development agenda rather than attacking potential political opponents.
Among those mentioned as possible challengers are former Water Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome and Murang’a Woman Representative Betty Maina, both of whom have been linked to interest in the gubernatorial contest.
Kang’ata Explains Uhuru Kenyatta’s Role in Opposition Politics
The governor also addressed former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s involvement in the opposition movement, saying his role was limited to providing moral support.
He dismissed suggestions that the political initiative depended on financial backing from the former president, distinguishing between political encouragement and direct involvement in funding opposition activities.
Kang’ata further said he was prepared to return to private life if he lost the 2027 gubernatorial election, adding that he would concentrate on his family.
“If I lose in 2027, I’ll go home. I am a family man; I have five children to care for,” he said.
His remarks outline his immediate political priorities while offering his perspective on the alliances and personalities shaping opposition discussions ahead of the next general election.
