Differences have emerged within the opposition coalition over when it should unveil its presidential candidate for the 2027 General Election, exposing contrasting views among some of its senior leaders.
The debate intensified after former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua proposed delaying the announcement of the coalition’s flagbearer until May 2027, arguing that an early declaration could give President William Ruto political advantages.
Speaking during a public event, Gachagua said the opposition should wait until the legal deadline before unveiling its candidate.
“We can name a candidate as late as May 15, 2027. We will not give President Ruto an opportunity to intimidate our flagbearer or divide us,” he said.
Muturi pushes for an early decision
Former Attorney General Justin Muturi has taken a different position, saying the coalition should settle on its presidential candidate much earlier.
Speaking during a church service, Muturi dismissed concerns that an early announcement would weaken the opposition.
“We do not have a candidate because we are afraid that when we name him, William Ruto will do something to the candidate. He knows all of us, what can he do?” Muturi said.
He also publicly endorsed Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka as his preferred candidate to challenge President Ruto in the next General Election.
Karua says no decision has been made
People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua also disagreed with suggestions that the opposition had already settled on a candidate.
According to Karua, the coalition has not established the structures or rules needed to select and announce a presidential flagbearer.
“We don’t have the rules or the structure of announcing, so if anybody says they are announcing, they are announcing for themselves only and not for the coalition,” she said.
Coalition insists it remains united
Despite the differing opinions, opposition leaders continue to maintain that they are united in their goal of fielding a single candidate against President Ruto in 2027.
Several coalition principals are expected to seek the ticket but have publicly pledged to support whoever is eventually chosen.
Meanwhile, Gachagua has begun a 45-day consultation process at his Wamunyoro home in Nyeri, saying the discussions will help determine the most suitable candidate to lead the opposition into the 2027 election.
