Tony Gachoka: Gachagua’s declaration to deputise Sifuna is a 2027 game changer

Kenya's KANU spokesman, Tony Gachoka, has characterized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's recent announcement of his willingness to serve as Edwin Sifuna's running mate in the 2027 presidential race as a "game changer." Gachoka, who turned 58 on September 7, publicly backed Sifuna for the presidency, contending that the proposed political alliance could substantially alter the dynamics of the presidential race.

Gachoka shared his support for Sifuna on his birthday, framing it as a historic endorsement linked to their shared past and association with the late opposition leader Raila Odinga. Gachoka highlighted their friendship with Odinga, who served as the chief guest at his 50th birthday celebrations, as a key factor in his endorsement.

Gachagua had previously expressed openness to stepping down from the presidential race to become Sifuna's running mate in a bid to strengthen the opposition coalition's chances of defeating incumbent President William Ruto. Gachoka's endorsement reflects the evolving political landscape leading up to the 2027 election, with opposition leaders exploring the possibility of selecting a single presidential candidate to avoid dividing the anti-Ruto vote.