Gachagua Moves to Calm Storm Over Opposition Plan for Nairobi’s Top Seats

By Brian Kiprono - Reporter

Kenya, December 7 2025 - DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua has sought to clarify the Opposition’s strategy for Nairobi after days of heated debate over claims that he wants his party to dominate the capital’s elective positions in 2027.

Speaking during a service at Christ Dominion Ministries in Kasarani on Sunday, the former Deputy President dismissed reports of infighting within the Opposition and insisted the coalition was working on a coordinated plan that respects each party’s strengths. He urged supporters to ignore what he called “invented rivalries”.

“In Nairobi, Wiper has built a strong base over the years. Where Wiper is strong, we will support Wiper. Where DCP is strong, we will request Wiper to support us,” he said, adding that the goal was a united front, not competition within the coalition.

Gachagua also described Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka as a “truthful leader” who would guide Nairobi’s Opposition strategy due to his experience. “We want the face of Kenya in Nairobi. We don’t want ODM left behind,” he said, signalling attempts to bring together traditionally competing factions.

His remarks come after earlier controversy, when Gachagua’s declaration that DCP would take the governor, senate and woman representative seats triggered widespread criticism and accusations of ethnic zoning. The comments unsettled both the Opposition and Nairobi residents, prompting Kalonzo to publicly deny claims that Wiper had ceded the city to DCP.

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On Sunday, Gachagua took a softer tone, saying inclusivity remained central to the plan. “We want a democratic face of Kenya in Nairobi,” he said, arguing that media reports had misrepresented him.

He used the moment to reach out to ODM members who feel marginalised, openly inviting Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and MP Babu Owino to collaborate with the coalition. “If ODM joins UDA, they will be lost,” he said. “They can still work with us.”

Gachagua also attempted to assure supporters that the Opposition would settle on a presidential flagbearer without internal fractures. “We are still deliberating. We will unveil our candidate in due time,” he said.

As the Opposition works to contain tensions, Nairobi continues to emerge as the key battleground, one whose outcome may determine the wider national race in 2027.