Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has declared he will withdraw from public appearances for 45 days starting June 15th, returning to his Wamunyoro residence for thorough discussions with followers, key figures, and various stakeholders.
Addressing media in Nairobi on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, Gachagua indicated that his primary objective is to select a unified presidential candidate to challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 elections.
“You won’t find me at any public gatherings during this period. I’ll be in Wamunyoro conducting intensive deliberations as this matter is crucial for our nation,” Gachagua emphasized.
This decision comes after a virtual meeting involving his 16-member council comprising elders, professionals, religious leaders, and youth advisors following the recent High Court judgment.
The leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party explained that the council has concluded that efforts to oust Ruto are finalized, with the immediate task now being to select a single opposition contender.
“A unified presidential candidate against President William Ruto is non-negotiable and represents the sole path to free our country,” Gachagua asserted.
He mentioned that his supporters, numbering approximately 10 million according to his estimation, have tasked him with spearheading this initiative.
Gachagua disclosed that he and his associates have two potential strategies in place.
The first plan focuses on rallying backing for himself as the presidential nominee if the consensus arrangement supports his candidacy.
The second plan entails collaborating with other United Alternative Government principals to jointly determine an alternative single candidate should the consensus favor someone else.
“I remain confident that I will emerge as the chosen candidate. I possess the capability, resources, organizational structure, executive background, essential connections, significant mobilization strength, substantial support base, and an effective campaign strategy,” he stated.
Prior to his departure to Wamunyoro on Monday, June 15, 2026, Gachagua confirmed he would visit Western Kenya during the preceding weekend to demonstrate solidarity with his deputy party leader Cleophas Malala and DAP-K Party Leader Eugene Wamalwa.
The 45-day deliberation period will commence upon his arrival in Wamunyoro.