Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has unveiled plans to trigger by-elections for lawmakers intending to exit President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party ahead of the 2027 general election.
During an interview with KTN News journalist Jesse Rodgers on Monday, February 24, Gachagua disclosed that several Senators and Members of Parliament had approached him, expressing interest in joining his soon-to-be-launched political party.
He emphasized that once these leaders formally ditch UDA, they would contest by-elections under his new party’s banner. However, Gachagua cited strategic reasons for delaying the party’s official unveiling, including the pending reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
“Our political party is ready, but for strategic reasons, I chose to hold off the unveiling until May,” Gachagua explained. “A reconstituted IEBC is crucial since many Senators and MPs are prepared to join us and face by-elections.”
According to Gachagua, as of February, approximately 139 Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) had already pledged allegiance to his new political outfit, ready to abandon UDA and contest fresh elections.
The former Deputy President noted that his decision to establish a new party followed extensive consultations with leaders nationwide since December. Due to the overwhelming interest, he extended the consultations to February, aligning with the IEBC’s reconstitution timeline.
Gachagua also revealed plans to meet former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for advice on building a robust political party.
“I plan to benchmark with ODM and learn from Raila Odinga’s strategy,” Gachagua stated. “One of my biggest regrets is feeling deceived by Ruto, but I am determined to ensure our party’s interests are secured through solid agreements.”