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Kiambu, November 5, 2026 – The simmering rivalry between former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i took a dramatic turn today as Matiang’i toured Gachagua’s political backyard of Kiambu County, delivering a pointed message from the heart of his rival’s turf.
Matiang’i was flanked by Kiharu Member of Parliament Ndindi Nyoro and a group of politicians allied to the United Opposition. Addressing residents and supporters, he called on Gachagua to be more accommodating and stop what he described as bullying of other leaders within the opposition outfit.
The visit comes amid an escalating war of words that has played out almost daily between the two leaders. Despite both being part of the United Opposition’s top leadership, the duo have repeatedly traded salvos, leaving many Kenyans questioning whether the alliance can stay united enough to challenge President William Ruto.
Matiang’i also took the fight to social media. He posted a photo of himself addressing a rally, captioned “In the boardroom.”
The phrase was a deliberate jab at Gachagua, who had previously criticised Matiang’i for allegedly spending his time in boardroom meetings instead of campaigning on the ground. By using the same words from a public rally in Gachagua’s own stronghold, Matiang’i appeared to be firing back at the criticism.
Political analysts say the incident highlights growing tension within the opposition, where ambitions and leadership positioning are increasingly colliding.
Many argue that the public sparring could weaken the coalition’s credibility and hand the ruling establishment an advantage ahead of the 2027 General Election.
As the exchanges continue, all eyes remain on whether opposition principals will find common ground or let rivalry derail their united front against the government.
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