A fierce political storm is brewing within Kenya's opposition ranks. Mumias East MP Peter Salasya has publicly warned former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to abandon divisive and selfish politics or risk being sidelined from the united opposition movement ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The vocal legislator's sharp rebuke comes in the wake of recent by-elections that exposed emerging cracks within the coalition. Salasya accused Gachagua of causing confusion and weakening the opposition's momentum through internal manipulation and focusing on a narrow, tribal-centric agenda. This, Salasya argues, threatens to derail the collective goal of providing a credible alternative to President William Ruto's government.

A Pattern of Disruption

In a strongly worded statement, Salasya pointed to Gachagua's actions during the November 27 mini-polls as evidence of a disruptive pattern. "Wewe Rigathi Gachagua, you will separate the united opposition. I hate your selfishness," Salasya declared, citing the former DP's alleged interference in races in Malava, Magarini, and Mbeere North. He claimed Gachagua's manoeuvres undermined candidates with stronger local support, ultimately benefiting the ruling UDA party.

Salasya's frustrations echo a growing sentiment among some leaders who fear Gachagua's aggressive style could be a liability. The Mumias East MP warned that if this behaviour continues, younger leaders are prepared to step up and offer new direction. "With this spirit, I don't see the opposition moving forward, but we young people shall give you directions very soon," he noted.

The Battle for Kenya's Future

This internal feud unfolds against a backdrop of significant political realignment. Gachagua, who was impeached in October 2024, has since launched his own party, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), and has been attempting to position himself as a key figure in the opposition. His strategy has heavily focused on consolidating his influence in the Mount Kenya region, a message that Salasya argues is regressive. "We want one Kenya that is tired of Ruto's leadership that has failed Kenyans," Salasya asserted, cautioning against a return to the ethnic-based politics of the past.

Salasya also challenged Gachagua's attempts to align with the youth-driven 'Gen Z' movement, stating the former DP does not own their voice and should consider retirement alongside other veteran politicians. For many Kenyans, this clash is more than just political theatre; it's a fight for the soul of the opposition. The central question is whether the coalition will unite under a national, issue-based platform or fracture along the lines of personality and regional interests, potentially handing an advantage to the incumbent government come 2027.

The coming months will be critical in determining whether the opposition can resolve these internal power struggles. As one analyst noted, Gachagua's confrontational approach could either galvanize a segment of the electorate or alienate crucial allies needed to unseat President Ruto. For now, the ball is in Gachagua's court, with leaders like Salasya making it clear that the path forward requires unity, not division.