Former President Uhuru Kenyatta and Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua reportedly differed on several political issues during a meeting held on Sunday, November 1, 2026, amid discussions about the future of the Mt Kenya region and the broader opposition strategy ahead of the 2027 General Election.
According to reports about the meeting, Uhuru commended Gachagua for his efforts to mobilise and unite the Mt Kenya region against President William Ruto. However, the two leaders are said to have disagreed over the timing of selecting a joint opposition presidential candidate and the management of relationships with other opposition figures.
On the question of the opposition's presidential candidate, Uhuru reportedly proposed that the coalition identify its flagbearer in December, as the country approaches the Christmas festivities.
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Gachagua is said to have opposed the proposal, arguing that announcing a candidate too early would give President Ruto sufficient time to reorganise his political machinery and weaken the opposition's strategy.
He reportedly cited challenges facing Ruto's succession arrangements, including competing interests over the Deputy President position. The account also attributes to Gachagua concerns about alleged political intimidation and the possible use of State institutions against opposition candidates.
Uhuru reportedly suggested that Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna compete for the opposition's presidential ticket, with Gachagua playing a supporting role in strengthening their collective political position.
Gachagua, however, reportedly maintained that he was also a presidential contender, arguing that his political ambitions remained valid and that he was still eligible to seek the country's top office.
The two leaders are also said to have discussed the possibility of Gachagua establishing working relationships with Matiang'i and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro.
Uhuru reportedly encouraged Gachagua to work with the two leaders, arguing that they shared political interests that could strengthen the opposition.
Gachagua is said to have rejected the suggestion, citing repeated attacks against him by online users and leaders associated with Matiang'i and Nyoro.
He reportedly questioned Matiang'i's efforts to consolidate his political support base in the Kisii region.
Regarding Nyoro, Gachagua allegedly maintained that the Kiharu MP was working as an operative of President Ruto to create divisions within the Mt Kenya political establishment.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki's political position was reportedly another subject of disagreement.
Uhuru is said to have encouraged Gachagua to accommodate Kindiki, describing him as a son of the Mt Kenya region whose political interests should be considered.
Gachagua reportedly rejected the suggestion, citing what he viewed as Kindiki's role in undermining his campaign against illicit alcohol and his alleged betrayal during the impeachment process.
The reported meeting ended without an agreed position on the opposition's presidential candidate, potential political alliances or reconciliation with other Mt Kenya leaders.
The account of the meeting has not been accompanied by photographs, and the details of the discussions have not been independently confirmed.
The reported differences come amid ongoing political manoeuvring within the opposition as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.