Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s potential reconciliation with retired President Uhuru Kenyatta appears imminent, yet it bears the hallmarks of a fragile alliance that could easily dissolve.
Despite a history of camaraderie, marked by Gachagua’s tenure as Kenyatta’s personal assistant before pursuing other ventures, the two found themselves on opposing sides during the lead-up to the 2022 General Election. Recently, however, they seem to be gradually setting aside their past conflicts as they prepare for the 2027 General Election.
Gachagua has actively defended Kenyatta in recent weeks, particularly as the former president faced criticism from various leaders, especially those from the Western region. Addressing the nation, Gachagua stood up for Kenyatta, especially in light of threats regarding the withholding of his benefits due to his continued involvement in politics following retirement. He asserted that if the United Opposition—now rebranded as the United Alternative Government—gains power, they would restore any benefits the current administration has withheld.
Gachagua emphasized that Kenyatta is not solely reliant on these benefits, highlighting the former president’s substantial personal wealth and work ethic. He further committed to shielding Kenyatta from government attacks, articulating that defending him has now become his responsibility.
This newfound support for Kenyatta seems strategic, suggesting the groundwork for a public handshake between the two, especially as the Jubilee Party aligns itself with the United Opposition and presents former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i as a key figure in their campaign against President Ruto in 2027.
Cleophas Malala, deputy party leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) and an ally of Gachagua, recently hinted at this developing alliance during a local TV interview. He indicated that Gachagua and Kenyatta are already collaborating, a situation that poses a significant threat to President William Ruto’s re-election prospects in 2027.
Malala noted that the anticipated Uhuru-Gachagua handshake influenced the Jubilee Party’s recent leadership changes, including Jeremiah Kioni’s transition from Secretary-General to Deputy Party Leader—an adjustment Kioni defended as an elevation rather than a demotion, given that only the Party Leader holds a higher position.
At a book launch on November 7, 2025, David Murathe, a close ally of Kenyatta who previously criticized Gachagua, expressed admiration for him. Murathe confidently endorsed Gachagua as the ideal candidate from the United Opposition to challenge President Ruto in 2027. He urged Gachagua to concentrate on the presidential race, emphasizing his determination and potential for victory. Murathe also conveyed optimism about the upcoming announcement of the United Opposition’s flag bearer, assuring that whoever is selected will receive unwavering support.
On the other hand, retired President Kenyatta appears to be nurturing this budding relationship with Gachagua. At a Jubilee Party meeting with grassroots leaders, he cautioned party members, especially Jeremiah Kioni, to cease any attacks on Gachagua, warning that persistent criticism would invoke disciplinary actions.
Murathe echoed Kenyatta’s sentiments, reinforcing the need to protect Gachagua from unwarranted attacks. Gachagua’s recent supportive comments towards Kenyatta signal that their handshake may not be an unrealistic expectation.
In politics, animosity is often transient; leaders frequently shift allegiances when interests converge. This dynamic may well explain the emerging collaboration between these two prominent figures.
Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi also weighed in, suggesting that a partnership between Kenyatta and Gachagua could spell significant challenges for President Ruto in 2027. In a February 13, 2026 interview with political analyst Herman Manyora, Muturi asserted that if the two leaders can reconcile their past differences and unite, the likelihood of Ruto facing defeat at the polls would increase substantially.
He added that such a coalition would send a powerful message to the nation, indicating a collective effort to rescue Kenya from what he described as the current regime’s “kleptocracy.” Manyora concurred, noting that even simple gestures of unity, such as appearing together in photographs or sharing meals, could significantly influence public perception and make the path to victory easier for the united opposition.
When asked about the reasons for the delay in formalizing their alliance, Muturi hinted at ongoing discussions, suggesting that a “white smoke” moment could soon be on the horizon as both leaders work diligently behind the scenes.
