By Mumo Judah, June 22, 2026
Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa has confirmed that the United Opposition is in the final stages of negotiating a formal binding agreement to front a single consensus presidential candidate ahead of the next general election, in a move aimed at consolidating political strength against the current administration.
Speaking during a live interview on Citizen TV on Sunday, June 21, 2026, Wamalwa said the opposition is prioritizing unity and shared national vision over individual political ambitions, noting that multiple leaders within the coalition are qualified to run but will ultimately rally behind one candidate.
He stressed that the emerging coalition framework is anchored on what he termed a “musketeer spirit,” where all principals act as equals but commit to collective responsibility in selecting and backing a single flagbearer.
“We will have a ‘first amongst equals’ candidate who represents our shared aspirations and policy direction for the country,” Wamalwa said, adding that the coalition’s focus is to improve livelihoods through structural reforms in governance, taxation, and public service delivery.
Wamalwa further noted that all key opposition figures, including Kalonzo Musyoka, Rigathi Gachagua, Martha Karua, Fred Matiang’i, and JB Muturi, are currently part of ongoing consultations that will determine the final arrangement. He emphasized that the selection process is being guided by a technical committee composed of experts drawn from all affiliate parties to ensure transparency and cohesion.
In a notable clarification, the DAP-K leader stated that Rigathi Gachagua remains constitutionally eligible to contest for the presidency, citing ongoing legal appeals challenging his impeachment process.
Addressing internal competition within the coalition, Wamalwa said he would personally support any agreed-upon candidate, regardless of whether he himself is selected, insisting that unity is paramount to their political strategy.
“We are committed to moving past personal ambitions. What matters most is presenting a united front capable of addressing the real issues affecting Kenyans,” he said.
He outlined the coalition’s shared agenda as tackling high taxation, corruption, insecurity, and public sector inefficiency, which he said remain the core concerns driving opposition politics.
The announcement signals intensified political realignment efforts within the opposition as parties move closer to formalizing a pre-election alliance expected to significantly shape the 2026–2027 political landscape.
