Gloria Orwoba Urges Gachagua Allies to Abandon ‘Hashtag Politics,’ Embrace Strategic Planning Ahead of 2027

Nairobi, Kenya — Former Nairobi Senator Gloria Orwoba has issued a sharp critique of the political strategy employed by allies of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, advising them to shift from reactive protest politics to a more structured and strategic approach ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking on Thursday, Orwoba — who was expelled from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in April — called on opposition forces to emulate the long-term tactics that propelled President William Ruto to power, including grassroots mobilization, message discipline, and sustained planning.

“Team Wantam, not hashtags and hate,” Orwoba stated, emphasizing that digital outrage and sporadic confrontations would fall flat against a politically astute figure like Ruto, whom she described as a “chess master.” Her remarks pointedly warned Gachagua’s supporters that merely criticizing the current president would not amount to a viable political strategy.

“President Ruto did not rise to power by chance. His success was the result of tireless planning, strategic alliances, and understanding the pulse of ordinary Kenyans,” she noted, urging opposition leaders to unify around a clear vision if they hope to mount a credible challenge in 2027.

Orwoba’s comments come amid growing political fragmentation in Kenya’s opposition landscape, as various camps vie for influence following Gachagua’s recent moves to form a new political outfit. Observers say her remarks reflect deeper rifts within the former ruling coalition, with voices like Orwoba’s advocating a pivot from confrontational politics to structured engagement.

Her statement has sparked mixed reactions online, with some praising her candor while others questioned her motives following her recent fallout with UDA leadership.