“Kasongo Did Well Impeaching Me”—Gachagua on Becoming the Strong Opposition

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has once again stirred political debate after declaring that his impeachment was a blessing in disguise, positioning him as the country’s new opposition voice following Raila Odinga’s withdrawal from active politics.

Speaking during a public engagement on Saturday, Gachagua said Kenya would have lacked a credible opposition figure had he remained in office.

He argued that the impeachment—engineered, in his words, by his political rivals—freed him from government loyalty and placed him in the perfect position to challenge President William Ruto’s administration.

“With Mzee Raila now resting from active politics, who would have led the opposition if I had not been impeached?” Gachagua posed. “Kasongo did well impeaching me; today I am the strong opposition Kenya needs.”

His comments triggered mixed reactions, especially among Kenya Kwanza supporters who view his recent political realignment as a direct challenge to the administration he once helped bring to power.

Gachagua maintained that his criticism is not driven by bitterness but by a “duty to protect ordinary Kenyans from rising economic hardships, tax burdens, and broken promises.”

Political analysts note that his statements reflect a growing power shift as the country adjusts to a post-Raila opposition landscape.

Gachagua has, in recent months, sharpened his attacks on government policy, positioning himself as the unexpected champion of aggrieved citizens and disillusioned Kenya Kwanza voters.

Supporters loyal to him welcome his new stance, praising him for “finding his voice” outside government constraints.

Critics, however, accuse him of political opportunism, arguing that he is exploiting public dissatisfaction to rebuild his influence ahead of 2027.