By John Peter
Kenyan politics is undergoing significant shifts, with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and NARC-K leader Martha Karua emerging as key figures in a potential realignment ahead of the 2027 elections.
Recent political events suggest that strategic alliances are taking shape, possibly setting the stage for a major political shake-up amove that is expected to form a coalition that will stage a serios opposition to president Ruto’s re-election.
The Trio met recently during the official launch of the Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP-K) headquarters. the party is associated with former defence cabinet secretary Eugene Wamalwa.
Their friendly interactions at the event, coupled with Gachagua’s earlier praise for Kalonzo during a church service—where he described him as “a good leader who stands with Kenyans”—have fueled speculation about a possible collaboration.
Meanwhile, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders led by Embakasi West MP Babu Owino and Nairobi senator Edwin Sifuna seem to be warming to join the Wiper movement after they were recently spotted.
Adding another layer to the unfolding realignment, Gachagua recently visited Martha Karua at her home. Karua, who served as Raila’s running mate in 2022, remains a formidable opposition figure.
Political analysts believe that a key factor behind this potential alliance is the growing discussion about a new regional political bloc known as GEMA, which brings together the Agikuyu, Embu, Meru, and Akamba communities.
A coalition involving Gachagua, Kalonzo, and Karua could effectively unite central and eastern Kenya, positioning them as a dominant force in the 2027 elections.
According to political analyst Albert Kasembeli , “Kalonzo and Gachagua both understand the importance of regional backing. If they come together with Karua, they could consolidate the votes of their respective strongholds and become a major force in the race.”
However, governance expert and JKUAT Don Charlees Mwangi warns that the success of such an alliance depends on power-sharing negotiations.
“The big question is who will be the presidential candidate. Kalonzo has made several attempts at the presidency and still sees himself as a frontrunner. On the other hand, Gachagua, as the former Deputy President, may feel entitled to the top seat. Their ability to compromise will determine whether this alliance holds,” he explains.
He further noted that the trio could leverage the current political dissatisfaction in Mount Kenya and Ukambani to challenge the existing leadership.
“If they manage to present themselves as an alternative voice to President Ruto’s administration, they could attract significant support from voters who feel disillusioned,” he notes.
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