Gachagua Declares GEMA Will Shape Kenya’s Next Government
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua declared that the GEMA communities will be key in shaping Kenya’s next government. He emphasized the strength of their voter base for the upcoming elections, criticized President Ruto’s dependence on Raila Odinga, and expressed willingness to collaborate with opposition leaders. Gachagua believes a united GEMA could govern for a century and insists that Gen Z voters will not support Ruto.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has asserted that the Gikuyu, Embu, Meru, and Akamba (GEMA) communities will significantly influence the formation of Kenya’s next government, regardless of any alliance with opposition leader Raila Odinga. Addressing attendees at a church service in Machakos, he expressed his confidence in GEMA’s potential to shape the nation’s political landscape.
Gachagua proclaimed, “GEMA ndiyo dawa ya Kenya. GEMA itaunda the next government,” emphasizing that unity among the GEMA communities would ensure their political dominance. He assured his supporters of a strong voter base for the upcoming 2027 general elections, stating, “We have looked at the numbers and they are good, with or without him (Raila).”
In his remarks, Gachagua criticized President William Ruto, arguing that Ruto’s political endurance is currently dependent on Odinga’s influence. He stated, “Life support machine ya Ruto ni Raila saa hii. Akizima, amekwisha,” predicting a challenging re-election process for Ruto in 2027, indicating that Ruto could rank third or fourth in that election.
Moreover, Gachagua emphasized the potential longevity of GEMA’s political dominance, declaring, “If we unite as GEMA, we shall be in power for the next 100 years.” His statements come amidst speculation regarding his political future and his recent outreach to opposition figures for potential alliances.
Gachagua’s recent overtures suggest a willingness to collaborate with opposition leaders like Odinga to unseat Ruto. He questioned Odinga’s intentions regarding his recent political alignment with Ruto, saying, “I do not understand Raila’s intentions; it is his choice whether he wants to be with Ruto and water down his political legacy or join the side of liberating this country.”
He also argued that the Gen Z demographic, crucial in the 2022 elections, would not support Ruto in 2027, contending, “Ruto is not getting a vote from the 9 million Kenyan Gen Zs,” and reinforcing the idea that Kenyans are ready for a change in leadership. Gachagua has been engaging with various political figures, aiming to forge a robust opposition coalition as the 2027 elections draw nearer.
In conclusion, Rigathi Gachagua’s address highlights a strategic claim that the GEMA communities will play a pivotal role in Kenya’s political future. His critiques of both President Ruto and potential partnerships with opposition figures underscore the evolving political dynamics as the 2027 elections approach. Gachagua’s unyielding confidence in GEMA’s unity and its implications for governance set the stage for a significant electoral battle.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
