Inside the Plan to Avoid a Coalition Fallout - Why United Opposition Allies Must Bond

Leaders aligned to the United Opposition used rallies in Kisii and Nyamira to send one clear message, they will not split when the time comes to pick a presidential candidate.

Instead, they insist they will rally behind whoever emerges as the coalition’s flag bearer and campaign as one team.

Among those leading the charge is former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who told supporters that unity is their strongest weapon heading into 2027.

Speaking at trading centres including Marani, Suneka and Nyamaramba, he said the coalition has agreed on a simple formula, let the most popular candidate carry the ticket, and the rest will back that person fully.

“We are not going to disintegrate. Those who lose will support the winner to the end,” he assured the crowds.

The opposition lineup features several heavyweights, including Fred Matiang'i, Martha Karua, Kalonzo Musyoka, and Eugene Wamalwa. Each has declared interest in the top seat, but the coalition says competition will not break their bond.

Gachagua urged leaders from the Gusii region to stand firmly behind Matiang’i, arguing that a leader must first be respected at home before earning national recognition.

He defended the former Interior Cabinet Secretary’s record, saying his performance in both the Education and Interior ministries proved his capability.

He also revisited his own political fallout, claiming he mobilized millions of Mount Kenya votes in the last election only to be pushed aside midway through the term.

He posed a provocative question to supporters, if the region redirects that voting bloc elsewhere, what would stop a political upset?

Tensions have flared during some of Matiang’i’s meetings, with claims that hired disruptors attempted to derail rallies. 

Both Gachagua and Matiang’i condemned the incidents, calling for issue based politics instead of personal attacks. Matiang’i maintained that he does not interfere with other leaders’ meetings and expects the same respect in return.

Local leaders, including Members of Parliament and senators elected through the Orange Democratic Movement, have openly backed his bid. Community elders have also appealed for unity, urging regional leaders to consolidate their support.

As the coalition builds momentum, the real test will come when one name is finally chosen. For now, the message from Kisii and Nyamira is steady and deliberate, unity first, ambition second.