Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has firmly rejected accusations of political bullying and arrogance within the United Opposition, maintaining that his forthright political style stems from a commitment to speaking the truth.
Speaking in response to criticism from Democratic Party (DP) leader Justin Muturi, Gachagua dismissed claims that he is undermining opposition unity or attempting to intimidate allied political leaders. Muturi had earlier accused the former Deputy President of political bullying and double-speak, warning that internal power struggles and regional posturing could derail the opposition’s challenge against President William Ruto in 2027.
“Some of my colleagues in the opposition have a problem with me simply because I am a truthful man and I tell them the truth all the time,” Gachagua stated on Wednesday. “They mistake truthfulness for arrogance and bullying. I am not arrogant; I am just being realistic about what it takes to win an election.”
Grassroots Mobilization Over Boardroom Deals
Gachagua challenged presidential hopefuls within the opposition alliance to step out of boardroom discussions and engage directly with voters on the ground. Pointing to recent outreach campaigns conducted by the DCP, he argued that defeating the incumbent administration requires active public mobilization rather than press conferences.
“To send this administration home, we must mobilize millions of voters across the country,” Gachagua noted. “Those numbers cannot be generated in hotel rooms, boardrooms, or press statements. If you want to be president, you must go out and work for it.”
Addressing opposition strategy, Gachagua reiterated that he remains open to supporting a consensus presidential candidate, provided the agreed-upon leader demonstrates hard work, mutual respect, and a clear vision for the nation. He also defended delaying the naming of a joint flagbearer, arguing that declaring a candidate too early would prematurely expose the opposition’s strategy.