Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has refuted claims that the opposition is planning to seize power unconstitutionally, asserting that the movement is instead focused on preparing for the 2027 general election.
Speaking in Nairobi on Wednesday afternoon, Gachagua, who leads the Democracy for Citizens Party, stated that the opposition’s priority is to push for good governance and democratic reforms ahead of the polls.
“There is no leader in the opposition who is planning a coup. None has the capacity to do so,” he said.
He urged the government to listen to the concerns of the public, particularly the youth, who he noted are demanding honest leadership and economic fairness amid rising frustrations over the cost of living and unemployment.
Gachagua further called on the government to support the middle class, arguing that empowering this segment of the population would stimulate job creation and improve economic stability.
At the same time, he cautioned against the suppression of demonstrators, saying protests were a legitimate call for transparency, accountability, and good governance.
“Suppressing demonstrators will not solve the underlying issues. It is time for the government to engage and listen,” he said.
The former Deputy President also announced that he will embark on a two-month tour of the United States, where he plans to engage Kenyans in the diaspora and the international community on Kenya’s current situation.
“I am travelling to the United States tonight to talk to Kenyans in the diaspora and the international community about the state of our nation. I would have wanted to stay in the country at this time, but I have engagements which I am not able to postpone,” he stated.
His remarks come amid growing public dissatisfaction with the government over economic challenges and calls for reforms, with protests recently witnessed in various parts of the country as young people demand accountability and relief from high living costs.