ODM, UDA MPs criticise Gachagua over 2027 election violence remarks

Legislators from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and United Democratic Alliance (UDA) parties have strongly criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s remarks about potential violence after the 2027 general elections.

In a recent interview with the YouTube channel Obinna TV, Gachagua argued that if the election is “messed with” and President William Ruto “forced on Kenyans”, the country would witness more violence than recorded after the 2007 elections, where over a thousand people were killed. 

Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi (ODM) and Kuria East MP Marwa Kitayama (UDA) denounced Mr. Gachagua’s remarks, reportedly made during a recent television interview, cautioning him to be mindful of his statements.

“Gachagua should be the last person to talk about violence. The whole point of the broad-based government is to foster peace,” said Atandi.

The lawmakers urged Kenyans to prioritize peace and ignore leaders whose words might fuel division in the country.

“I urge Kenyans not to listen to such rhetoric,” Kityama added.

Speaking at a fundraising event at St Peters’ ACK Anyuongi in Bondo Constituency, Belgut MP Nelson Koech (UDA) accused Mr Gachagua of harboring an excessive desire for power, linking him to last year's anti-government protests that nearly destabilized the Kenya Kwanza administration in June last year.

“The youth had legitimate concerns but unfortunately, Gachagua incited them into violence… From his reasoning one can tell he is a total villager,” Koech said.

Uriri MP Mark Nyamita (ODM), however, downplayed Mr. Gachagua’s remarks, asserting that his statements hold little weight and should not cause unnecessary concern.

“I am not worried about Gachagua’s statements… when he threatens chaos and violence, I do not believe he has consequential influence over Kenyans,” he said.

The event was also attended by Emgwen MP Jossess Kiptoo, alongside Bondo MP Gideon Ochanda, Seme MP James Nyikal, and Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Oginga who urged support for the ‘broad-based government’ and peace across the nation.