Why Gachagua aims for 15 million votes in 2027

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has announced that his camp is targeting at least 15 million votes in the next election.

He argued that a landslide victory would prevent rivals from challenging the results in the Supreme Court.

Gachagua stated that a broad coalition is taking shape, securing key voting blocs across the country, including the vote-rich Mt Kenya, Ukambani and Western regions.

The former DP emphasised that ongoing political consultations with influential regional leaders will give rise to a formidable movement capable of sending the current government home.

"We want to secure about 15 million votes with a margin of six million, ensuring that no one will have grounds to go to the Supreme Court," Gachagua said.

He asserted that he has already consolidated support in Mt Kenya and is working with other leaders, including Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, to expand their voter base.

Gachagua was speaking on Tuesday during a live interview on vernacular radio stations broadcasting in the Mulembe nation.

In the 2022 general election, Ruto won the presidency with 7,176,141 votes (50.49 per cent), narrowly defeating his main rival, Raila Odinga, who garnered 6,942,930 votes (48.85 per cent).

Ruto’s victory was largely attributed to his strong performance in the Mt Kenya region, which delivered nearly 47 per cent of the national tally.

On Tuesday, Gachagua expressed confidence that he can replicate that electoral success in 2027, stripping the current regime of nearly five million votes.

"Where Gachagua and the people of Mt Kenya stand, that is where the winning team will be," he declared.

He also urged the Luhya community to align with his political camp, arguing that their unity could help them secure a key role in the next government.

"It is my prayer that the Mulembe Nation joins us in the winning team because, with their support, victory will be much easier," he said.