Former Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana has described the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and the removal of ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna as examples of “costly party mistakes” that, in his view, end up strengthening the individuals they seek to sideline.

Speaking during a television interview aired on April 9, 2026, Kibwana drew parallels between President William Ruto’s political decisions and internal party dynamics, arguing that the removal of influential figures often produces unintended political consequences.

“To say that the mistake that the President did vis-a-vis Honorable Gachagua in terms of sending him away was, in my opinion, as if he was saying to himself, ‘I was a strong deputy to Uhuru, and I gave him trouble. Gachagua is a strong deputy; he’s going to give me trouble,” Kibwana said.

He added that Ruto initially preferred Kindiki as running mate in the 2022 elections but eventually settled on Gachagua, who he said had stronger financial backing during the campaign period.

Kibwana said that from the early stages of the administration, Gachagua was already “a marked man.”

Political parallels with ODM

Kibwana drew a similar comparison with ODM, stating that the party’s handling of Sifuna reflected the same political pattern of sidelining influential leaders, which can increase their visibility and political weight.

“It is the same mistake that ODM has done in terms of getting Sifuna out,” he said.

He further observed that removing key figures from party structures can unintentionally elevate their political standing and public profile. According to him, such outcomes are often acknowledged privately but rarely stated publicly by politicians.

“If I was Gachagua, I would say the President did a good thing to kick me out because he has made me a figure larger than life,” Kibwana said.

Legal status of impeachment

Kibwana also addressed the legal implications of Gachagua’s impeachment, noting that the matter remains subject to judicial review until all appeal processes are concluded, including at the Supreme Court.

“Strictly speaking, from a legal point of view, because it can be reversed… those chances are open for him,” he said.

He added that the ongoing legal process keeps political possibilities open for Gachagua, regardless of his future political direction.

Opposition strategy and political outlook

Turning to the opposition, Kibwana compared the current political realignments to the early formation of the National Rainbow Coalition (NARC) in 2000–2001, when opposition leaders began organizing ahead of elections.

He urged opposition leaders to develop a clear policy agenda beyond criticism of President William Ruto’s administration.

“It is not enough to simply tell Kenyans you don’t like the president, like us,” he said, adding that key issues such as corruption, rule of law and youth unemployment must be addressed.

Kibwana said the opposition is expected to unveil a structured manifesto in the coming year as it seeks to consolidate its position ahead of the 2027 General Election.