Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has positioned Kenya’s struggling economy as the central frontline in the opposition’s campaign to unseat the current regime ahead of the 2027 General Election.

In an X post on February 23, 2026, Gachagua framed the opposition’s push ahead of the 2027 elections as a fight for the people, placing citizens at the centre of political change.

“Our ultimate victory in the quest for the liberation of the people of Kenya is about The People!” He emphasised that the power of the ballot is the key tool for citizens to reclaim their voice and influence the country’s direction.

Gachagua accused the current government of deliberately undermining Kenya’s economy, warning that its actions have left the nation vulnerable and embarrassed on the global stage.

“In the words of the people, the voice of a people oppressed but with the power of the ballot, there will be no alternative route for this regime so deliberately destroying our economy and making Kenya a laughing stock in the league of nations,” he said.

United Opposition Kisii tour

Gachagua’s remarks came during a United Opposition tour in the Gusii region, covering Kisii and Nyamira counties, where large crowds gathered in support of the coalition’s push for a unified wantam agenda.

He thanked leaders, including Jubilee Party presidential candidate Fred Matiang’i, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, PNU leader Peter Munya, and other elected officials, for their commitment to the cause.

The tour culminated in a symbolic coronation at Ekerenyo Grounds in Nyamira County, where Abagusii elders formally installed former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i as the community’s elder and spokesman.

Elders presented Matiang’i with a special cloth, headgear, a stick, and a whisk for ceremonial greetings. A religious leader blessed the items before handing them over to the United Opposition principals, who shook hands with Matiang’i as he held the symbols.

Rallying behind economic revival and unity

At a roadside rally in Keroka town, Gachagua urged residents to protect Matiang’i’s dignity, stating, “For Matiang’i to be respected nationwide, he must first be respected at home.”

He emphasised unity behind the Jubilee presidential hopeful as a cornerstone of the opposition’s strategy.

Gachagua has consistently highlighted economic hardship as the government’s Achilles’ heel, decrying over-taxation, unpaid bills, mounting public debt, limited money circulation, and policies affecting farmers and ordinary citizens.

He contrasted these failures with opposition pledges to revive the economy, support agriculture, restore free primary education, and prioritise infrastructure if given power.