John Methu Says Opposition Politicians Should Engage Kenyans and Stop Waiting for Endorsements

Nyandarua Senator John Methu has firmly dismissed suggestions from sections of the opposition that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua should play a secondary role in the 2027 presidential race.

Speaking during recent public engagements, Methu argued that political realities and voter support dictate leadership hierarchy within the united opposition. 

“A person who has five million votes cannot deputise someone with three million votes,” he stated, underscoring Gachagua’s superior political weight in key regions, particularly Mount Kenya.

Methu, who serves as Secretary General designate of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), has consistently positioned Gachagua as the opposition’s strongest contender against President William Ruto. 

He has urged co-principals in the United Opposition to settle on a single flagbearer swiftly, warning that multiple candidates would split votes and weaken the challenge to the incumbent.

The senator rejected notions that other figures should take the lead, insisting Gachagua remains the “engine” capable of uniting the opposition and delivering a decisive victory. 

He has called for regional mobilisation, naming leaders such as former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i for Gusii, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya for Western Kenya, while Gachagua anchors Mount Kenya.

Methu’s remarks come amid intensifying preparations for 2027, with the opposition seeking to capitalise on dissatisfaction with the current administration. 

He maintains that unity behind the candidate with the broadest support base is non-negotiable for success.

By prioritising electoral arithmetic over internal negotiations that dilute strength, Methu has signalled that any arrangement sidelining Gachagua would be untenable. 

The senator continues to rally support for a focused opposition strategy aimed at unseating Ruto.