Fresh Cracks Loom in Opposition as DCP MP Confronts Matiang’i and Jubilee
Fresh tensions are emerging inside the United Opposition after Embakasi North MP and Nairobi gubernatorial hopeful James Gakuya openly confronted former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i and the Jubilee Party, urging them to stop taking a separate political direction.
Gakuya warned that their current path risks widening the already fragile cracks within the coalition at a time when unity is most needed.
Speaking on Sunday, December 7, during a lively rally in Mwiki, Nairobi County—an event led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka—Gakuya told Jubilee to avoid isolating itself from other opposition outfits.
He stressed that the coalition could easily weaken if member parties continue operating independently.
“I want to tell Matiang’i and the Jubilee Party—stop following your own path, because that road will only lead you astray,” Gakuya declared.
His sharp remarks highlighted the growing unease inside the coalition, where disagreements over strategy, loyalty, and the 2027 political roadmap appear to be widening internal divisions.
Over the past week, Jubilee and the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) have exchanged accusations, each claiming the other is acting as a mole within the alliance.
Leaders from both sides have hinted that some parties may be cooperating secretly with the government, raising questions about trust and commitment inside the opposition.
The latest tensions follow a major disagreement that erupted in September 2025. Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni had alleged that Rigathi Gachagua was secretly holding talks with President William Ruto.
According to Kioni, Gachagua had met influential figures in Narok County to plan behind-the-scenes cooperation during the November 27 by-elections.
Gachagua strongly rejected the claims, insisting he has no interest in negotiating with the president. “From what the people of Mount Kenya have told me, William Ruto is not part of that equation. We have no intention whatsoever to have any discussion or negotiation with William Ruto,” he said during an interview.
He later intensified his criticism of Jubilee, mocking the party as “a red wheelbarrow” during a rally in the Mount Kenya region. Gachagua also linked Jubilee to alleged secret arrangements with President Ruto’s UDA Party, remarks that further fuelled speculation of mistrust in the coalition.
Meanwhile, Fred Matiang’i—Jubilee’s presidential candidate—has been noticeably missing from most joint opposition rallies, especially those attended by Gachagua and Kalonzo.
His continued absence is feeding perceptions that he is slowly carving out his own political path. Many observers believe Matiang’i is quietly consolidating support and positioning himself strongly ahead of the 2027 general election.
Despite all these public exchanges and divisions, senior coalition leaders have maintained that they are committed to keeping the opposition united.
They continue to assure supporters that the coalition will stand together and eventually agree on a single presidential candidate to challenge William Ruto in 2027.
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