The United Opposition is reportedly reorganising its campaigns and election strategy, drawing inspiration from the 2002 presidential race won decisively by former President Mwai Kibaki, The Eastleigh Voice has learnt.
Insiders say the plan involves producing a single presidential candidate with broad nationwide appeal while targeting regions President William Ruto may rely on for reelection.
Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka said the goal is to create a “Kibaki moment” by uniting Kenyans against Ruto.
“Part of our strategy is to rally all Kenyans to overwhelmingly vote against Ruto the way they voted against Uhuru Kenyatta in the 2002 election that was massively won by Kibaki,” he said.
Unity among opposition leaders—including DCP Party’s Rigathi Gachagua, Jubilee Party’s Fred Matiang’i, and Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka—will be critical in determining whether Ruto faces a tight race.
Suba South MP Caroli Omondi explained that the opposition is working to secure up to 16 million votes by building a broad-based coalition that harnesses youth participation.
“We have done our analysis, and I think we can bring a coalition of 16 million votes, including Gen Zs, and we are happy,” he said.
During a three-day tour of the Gusii region, leaders urged unity, held public engagements, and criticised the government over the rising cost of living.
Gachagua warned residents against allowing external forces to dictate regional politics.
“It cannot be that Osoro (National Assembly Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro) is imposed as the region's kingpin, and does not allow outsiders to impose such leaders.”
PNU's Peter Munya said, “Back him (Matiang’i) so that other regions can also support him.”
Musyoka noted that government failures, including mismanagement of free education, have left citizens disillusioned: “They have run down almost every sector, even the free education we started with Kibaki.”
Political analysts caution that while the opposition may agree on the principle of unseating Ruto, selecting a single candidate is challenging.
Aspirants are reluctant to compromise, and negotiations over criteria for the joint candidate—whether by numbers, integrity, or service record—remain contentious.
Musyoka has dismissed rumours of a split, describing the “United Opposition” as a coalition of leaders committed to national change.
Analyst Samuel Owida said opposition unity will be key in determining Ruto’s reelection chances.
He noted that replicating a 2002-style landslide may be difficult given today’s political dynamics, but widespread disillusionment with Ruto could work in their favour.
“The 2002 scenario could be different from today’s political dynamics. Voters are getting clever in every contest… Both Ruto and the opposition will have to convince Kenyans why they should be elevated to leadership,” he said.
Comments
Sign in with Google to comment, reply, and like comments.
Continue with Google