DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua is trying to hold the United Opposition together as talks on the coalition's presidential ticket intensify, The Star reported on Sunday. Since returning from his US tour, Gachagua has hosted Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and the Linda Mwananchi faction. He has also met Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa. Gachagua says the meetings are consultations to identify a joint candidate.
The divisions surfaced on Friday at the launch of the Linda Mwananchi Movement headquarters in Lavington, Nairobi. Sifuna supporters chanted "President Sifuna" as Kalonzo tried to speak. Kalonzo had criticised Wamalwa for appearing to declare Sifuna a presidential candidate. He said this came before formal party processes were complete. He added that delegates would consider Sifuna's candidature on November 13.
Sifuna stepped in and asked the crowd to let Kalonzo finish. "This is no way to treat our guests," he said. Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, who leads Sifuna's presidential campaign, acknowledged that Kalonzo left upset. He called for tolerance. He also warned that opponents could exploit the divisions by disrupting opposition events.
Kalonzo said he does not oppose Sifuna's ambitions but wants party procedures followed. He noted that a delegates' conference on October 10, 2025, gave him a mandate to run for president. He pledged to back Sifuna, Gachagua or Wamalwa if any of them wins the coalition's backing.
More friction followed when DCP deputy leader Cleophas Malala claimed the party had agreed with Gachagua to endorse Sifuna. Malala also suggested the party would ask Kalonzo to step aside for Sifuna. Gachagua said these were Malala's personal views, not the DCP position. He added that he had reprimanded him. On Saturday, Wiper spokesperson Ndegwa Njiru rejected Malala's claims.
Other groups are also in play. Jubilee leader Fred Matiang'i, Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro and PLP leader Martha Karua are working together. The Star says this adds another centre of influence. Nyandarua Senator John Methu, the DCP secretary general-designate, said the party would not work with some groups. He named those whose position is that "if we are not the candidates, Ruto should remain in power". According to The Star, the remark appeared aimed at Jubilee deputy leader Jeremiah Kioni.