Gachagua Announces 2027 Presidential Bid, Defends Eligibility Amid Impeachment Battle

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has declared his intention to run for president in the 2027 Kenyan general election, expressing confidence in his legal eligibility and popular support despite his recent impeachment. In a detailed interview with Citizen TV on Tuesday, Gachagua outlined his vision, addressed concerns about his legal standing, and emphasized the need for opposition unity to challenge President William Ruto.

Gachagua made a bold case for his candidacy, highlighting his qualifications and growing support base. "I am a candidate to be president of the Republic of Kenya. I am qualified. I have support. I am looking for more support, and I’ll be on the ballot as a candidate for president," he stated. He expressed optimism about his campaign, citing his drive, strategies, and belief in his ability to garner widespread backing.

Addressing concerns about his impeachment, Gachagua pointed to legal provisions that allow individuals to seek elected office while appealing convictions. He referenced the case of Sirisia MP John Waluke, who was convicted and sentenced but ran for office after filing an appeal. "The law is very clear that the Constitution guarantees your right to fight for elected office, even if you have been convicted, as long as you have not exhausted all legal remedies available," Gachagua explained. He noted that his impeachment case is still pending in the courts, and he intends to respect their final ruling. "The High Court and the Court of Appeal have not ruled. Until that has happened, I remain free to file for office," he added, refraining from further comment on the ongoing legal proceedings.

Gachagua stressed the importance of a united opposition to defeat President Ruto in 2027. He praised fellow opposition leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, Fred Matiang’i, and Eugene Wamalwa, describing them as competent and capable. However, he expressed his desire to emerge as the coalition’s flag bearer, citing his strategic vision and support base. "When we agree, all contenders will have to sit down and agree on one flag bearer. I hope that I’ll be the one because I have the drive, strategies, and numbers," he said.

He underscored the opposition’s responsibility to present a single candidate to address critical issues such as corruption and extrajudicial killings. Gachagua warned that any contender who undermines this unity would be betraying the national interest. "The people of Kenya want one candidate to face a vote. We have a responsibility to restore this country, end extrajudicial killings, and corruption. Whoever goes astray will be a traitor to the Kenyan cause," he asserted.

Gachagua expressed confidence in the integrity of the 2027 election, despite concerns about the selection process for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). He noted that recent legal reforms have significantly reduced the risk of electoral rigging. "Kenyans will wake up early and make a decisive decision. I don’t think anybody will interfere with the will of the people," he said, emphasizing his trust in voters to exercise their democratic rights freely.

Gachagua confirmed that his party, the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), will field candidates in upcoming by-elections, including in Banisa, Mandera. Meanwhile, his legal team continues to challenge his impeachment. Lawyers Dudley Ochiel and Kamotho Njomo have accused Parliament of "abusing the judicial process" by taking contradictory positions on Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu’s authority under Article 165(4) of the Constitution. They argued that the National Assembly is barred from asserting inconsistent positions, citing the doctrine of judicial estoppel.

The legal dispute stems from Mwilu’s decision to appoint Justices Eric Ogolla, Anthony Mrima, and Fridah Mugambi to hear Gachagua’s case, a move upheld by the High Court but later challenged by the Court of Appeal. On May 9, 2025, the appellate court ruled that the bench appointed in October 2024 did not meet constitutional requirements and directed Chief Justice Martha Koome to constitute a new bench. Gachagua has since petitioned the Supreme Court to dismiss a case challenging the Court of Appeal’s ruling, which affirmed Mwilu’s authority to form the bench.

As Gachagua prepares for his presidential bid, he remains focused on building support and navigating his legal challenges. His announcement signals a contentious 2027 election, with the former deputy president positioning himself as a formidable contender in a crowded opposition field. His emphasis on unity, electoral integrity, and addressing national issues sets the stage for a high-stakes campaign in the coming years.