This is the first joint public rally by Gachagua, the Democracy for Citizens Party leader, and Kalonzo in Machakos since the opposition leaders agreed to work together ahead of the 2027 general election.
It also marks the first appearance by all major opposition figures together, as they seek to present a united front in their bid to unseat President William Ruto in 2027.
The leaders spent the night at Kalonzo’s Muuna residence in Mwingi, Kitui County.
The rally comes at a time when President Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga are camped in Homa Bay, launching development projects ahead of Madaraka Day on June 1.
The opposition’s new strategy appears to focus on holding mini-rallies in each other’s strongholds to counter Ruto, rather than staging sporadic events across the country.
“The political journey begins. We are the united opposition determined to liberate Kenyans from tyranny, oppression, and kleptocracy,” Kalonzo declared on his Facebook page.
Gachagua and Kalonzo were accompanied by DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, DP party leader and former CS Justin Muturi, as well as a host of governors and MPs.
The leaders began the day in Matuu, where they addressed a roadside rally before proceeding to Machakos for the main event.
On Thursday, May 29, 2025, the leaders had converged at Kalonzo’s Muuna residence in Mwingi, Kitui County, for a strategy meeting that brought together political figures and residents.
That gathering came a month after Gachagua hosted opposition luminaries at his Wamunyoro residence as part of ongoing consultations ahead of the 2027 elections.
The meeting
focused on forging a united front to mobilise both the Kamba community and the
broader opposition bloc in preparation for the 2027 General Election.
Addressing thousands of supporters, Kalonzo warned against any attempt to rig the upcoming election and reaffirmed the opposition's commitment to integrity and accountability.
“We came here today with one message: do not attempt to rig the elections, do not undermine our coalition partners, and do not play with the future of our children. We are determined to build a better Kenya with quality education and accountable leadership,” he said.
He urged President Ruto to prepare for a fair contest in 2027.
“If you dare arrest Rigathi Gachagua, you risk provoking the wrath of Kenyans,” Kalonzo warned.
He further revealed that the opposition will soon unveil a new coalition and stressed the urgent need to overhaul the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to guarantee free and fair elections.
The Wiper leader also encouraged all youth aged 18 and above to obtain national identification cards and register as voters.
Echoing Kalonzo’s call for unity, Gachagua affirmed that opposition parties have agreed to collaborate to defeat Kenya Kwanza in 2027.
“We have consulted with Kalonzo Musyoka and other leaders and agreed that we must unite behind one presidential candidate. We urge Kenyans to be patient as we build consensus,” Gachagua said.
