Opposition chiefs step up campaigns

The United Opposition on Friday intensified their onslaught against President William Ruto, urging Kenyans to rally behind them and kick out the current administration in the next year’s polls.

The leaders called on supporters to remain united, saying opposition cohesion was key to defeating the Kenya Kwanza government at the ballot. They spoke at a series of rallies in Nakuru.

Led by DCP boss Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper Patriotic Front party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, they addressed rallies in Mai Mahiu, Naivasha Town, Gilgil and Nakuru town.

Gachagua said the opposition would sustain countrywide mobilisation campaigns aimed at sending Ruto home after a single term.

The leaders have been holding rallies in several regions as political camps prepare for the next election, setting the stage for a fierce contest with the President’s allies.

From Monday through Wednesday, the team had camped in Nyamira and Kisii counties, pushing their one-term narrative.

 “The politics of this country starts here in Nakuru. I campaigned for this administration and instead it has frustrated us,” Gachagua said in Maai Mahiu.

Wiper boss Kalonzo said the country is ripe for change and called Kenyans to send Ruto and his administration packing.

“We must save this country, where we have reached, we must do everything possible to save this nation,” the former Vice-President said.

He told supporters to elect only DCP leaders at the county level, saying political change must begin at the national and county levels.

Other opposition figures who accompanied him promised to close ranks and maintain a united front ahead of the polls.

They said past internal divisions had weakened their political strength, but expressed confidence the opposition would remain intact this time round.

Jubilee deputy party leader Fred Matiang’i said the only way to send Ruto home is to remain united as the opposition and rally behind one candidate.

“We are united as opposition because we want to save this country,” he said.

Also on the tour were Martha Karua (PLP), Eugene Wamalwa (DAP-K) and former Agriculture CS Mithinka Linturi, amongst others.

The United Opposition is comprised of at least eight opposition political parties.