GEMA Holds the Key to Power Says Gachagua
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has asserted that the Gikuyu, Embu, Meru, and Akamba (GEMA) communities will be instrumental in shaping Kenya’s next government, regardless of veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga’s support.
During a church service in Machakos on Sunday, Gachagua expressed confidence in GEMA’s political strength, emphasizing its ability to lead the nation’s future governance.
"GEMA ndiyo dawa ya Kenya. GEMA itaunda the next government," he declared.
He reassured his supporters that their political strategy was solid and that they commanded sufficient numbers to secure victory. “We have looked at the numbers, and they are good with or without him [Raila].”
Gachagua also took a swipe at President William Ruto, alleging that Ruto’s political survival now hinges on Raila Odinga’s influence.
"Life support machine ya Ruto ni Raila saa hii. Akizima, amekwisha," he claimed, predicting a tough re-election battle for the president in 2027. “Ruto atakuwa number 3 ama number 4 2027.”
He further stated that GEMA’s unity would ensure long-term political dominance.
"If we unite as GEMA, we shall be in power for the next 100 years," he declared.
His remarks come shortly after he hinted at potential collaboration with Raila Odinga to bolster efforts to unseat Ruto in the 2027 general election.
Raila and Ruto recently reached a new political agreement, leading to the inclusion of several of Raila’s allies in a broad-based government.
Since his removal from Ruto’s government in October, Gachagua has been actively engaging political figures, including opposition leaders, in preparation for the 2027 elections.
During a Wednesday interview with Musyi FM and other Kamba radio stations, Gachagua was asked about the possibility of working with Odinga.
"I do not understand Raila’s intentions; it is his choice whether he wants to be with Ruto and water down his political legacy or join the side of liberating this country," he responded.
"Ruto is not getting a vote from the 9 million Kenyan Gen Zs, so whether Raila is with him or not, we will defeat him. Kenyans have already decided Ruto must go home and want a new government that serves them."
Gachagua has been meeting with key opposition figures, including Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua of the People’s Liberation Party (PLP), and Eugene Wamalwa of the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), as he works to build a formidable coalition ahead of the next election.