UNITY OR DIVISION? IS OPPOSITION UNITY BEGINNING TO CRACK AHEAD OF THE 2027 ELECTIONS? — Nairobi/Migori Nairobi/Migori.

The concerns intensified after Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi accused former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of intimidating smaller communities and attempting to dictate terms within the opposition alliance. Kibagendi argued that any opposition coalition must be built on equal partnership, consultation and respect among all players.

Amid the growing debate, opposition leader Dr Fred Matiang’i called for patience, saying efforts to unite opposition leaders require time and careful engagement. Matiang’i acknowledged the complexity of coalition-building, urging supporters to avoid rushing the process despite emerging differences among political actors.

In parallel, the unity question has taken a regional dimension, with calls from leaders such as Geoffrey Mosiria urging the Gusii community to rally behind Matiang’i’s presidential ambitions. Mosiria dismissed claims that the community lacks sufficient numbers to influence a presidential contest, arguing that elections are determined through alliances, voter mobilisation and strategic partnerships.

While opposition leaders maintain that unity remains achievable, the recent exchanges point to the challenges of balancing competing ambitions and regional expectations. With the 2027 race taking shape, the coalition faces the delicate task of turning diverse interests into a common political agenda.

The first clear sign of strain emerged during Matiang’i’s tour of Migori County.

Kibagendi accuses Gachagua of intimidation

Speaking in Kehancha, Kibagendi claimed leaders from smaller communities were being sidelined within the opposition and warned against attempts to dictate the coalition’s direction.

He insisted that all opposition principals should be treated as equals, arguing that respect and inclusivity are essential if the coalition is to mount a serious challenge in the 2027 General Election.

Kibagendi also criticised suggestions that Matiang’i should concentrate his campaigns in Kisii, Kuria and other smaller communities, saying such remarks undermine his national political profile. Gachagua had not publicly responded to the claims by the time of publication.

As the public exchange drew attention, Matiang’i moved to calm the situation and reframe the debate around process rather than personalities.

Matiang’i appeals for patience

Responding to the growing debate, Matiang’i urged opposition leaders to remain patient, saying efforts to unite the coalition require time, dialogue and mutual respect.

Speaking in Nyankore, Kuria West, the former Interior Cabinet Secretary said differences among leaders should be resolved through consultations rather than public exchanges. He expressed confidence that ongoing discussions would eventually produce consensus, insisting that Kenyans expect a united opposition ahead of the next election.

While national principals sought to contain the friction, attention also shifted to the Gusii community’s internal mobilisation behind Matiang’i.

Mosiria rallies Gusii behind Matiang’i

As national leaders work to ease tensions, Nairobi County Chief Officer Geoffrey Mosiria has called on the Gusii community to unite behind Matiang’i’s expected presidential bid.

Mosiria urged leaders across Kisii and Nyamira to put aside political differences and support one of their own, saying regional unity would strengthen the community’s bargaining power in national politics.

He also dismissed remarks attributed to Kibagendi suggesting the Gusii community lacks the numbers to determine a presidential election, arguing that elections are won through coalitions, voter turnout and strategic partnerships rather than population size alone.

The county official further encouraged eligible residents, particularly young people, to register as voters ahead of the 2027 General Election, saying higher turnout would increase the region’s political influence.

The three developments, unfolding within days of each other, illustrate the pressures facing the opposition. Public friction between Kibagendi and Gachagua has exposed sensitivities around the treatment of smaller communities and the national reach of Matiang’i’s candidacy. Matiang’i’s call for patience seeks to contain the fallout and keep dialogue alive. At the same time, Mosiria’s appeal highlights the parallel effort to consolidate the Gusii base and reject any narrative that diminishes the community’s political weight.

Whether these exchanges signal a lasting crack or temporary strain will depend on how successfully principals convert private consultations into a shared agenda. For now, the opposition continues to insist unity is possible, even as the competing demands of leadership, partnership and regional interests test that claim ahead of 2027.