Kenya: Gachagua Defends Right to Run for President in 2027, Shrugs Off 'King Maker' Label

Nairobi — Rigathi Gachagua, the former Deputy President of Kenya, has declared his intention to contest the presidency in the 2027 General Election, asserting that his impeachment does not prevent him from seeking public office while his legal appeals are still active. At an event promoting unity among opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections, Deputy Chief of Protocol Clephas Malala represented him.

Gachagua pledged to pursue his case through both the Court of Appeal and, if necessary, the Supreme Court, insisting that all legal remedies must be exhausted before being barred from running for office. He argued that the Constitution requires the exhaustion of all available legal options before a person facing integrity-related questions can be disqualified from running for office.

Gachagua's stance was met with support from senior legal figures, who maintained that he remains eligible to contest public office until he exhausts all avenues of appeal. The former Deputy President rejected claims that he seeks to be a political "kingmaker," insisting that his political ambitions are not limited to helping another candidate defeat President William Ruto.

Instead, Gachagua views himself as a principal player in the opposition's efforts to challenge Ruto, rejecting suggestions that he should automatically back another presidential candidate.