Oburu, Kalonzo & Gachagua meeting hint a pre-2027 coalition

By Newsflash Writer

A private meeting between Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Oburu Oginga, Wiper Democratic Movement (WDM) leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua on Friday, February 13, 2026, has fueled speculation about a possible pre-2027 political coalition.

Although the agenda of the meeting was not immediately disclosed, political circles have been abuzz with discussions about realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The timing of the meeting is notable, coming just a day after Kalonzo returned from a US tour and amid ongoing turbulence in ODM, triggered by the attempted ouster of embattled Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna.

Gachagua signals openness to alliance

The meeting adds to recent statements by Gachagua, who has repeatedly expressed willingness to collaborate across party lines. Speaking at a burial ceremony in Muranga on January 3, 2026, the DCP leader said:

“If the opposition agrees that it is Rigathi Gachagua who will be the presidential flag bearer, Mt Kenya will vote en masse for him. That will also apply if our cousin Kalonzo Musyoka, Fred Matiang’i and George Natembeya.”

ODM leader Oburu Oginga when he met DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua at Machakos on 13/02/2026. Photo/Denish Ochieng

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“I have heard that Mzee Oburu also wants to be a presidential candidate. He has said that he wants. [Edwin] Sifuna, tell that Mzee to come and talk with us. If we agree it’s Mzee Oburu, we shall give him all our votes.”

He added a caveat, noting: “The only person who can’t get our votes is Kasongo (President William Ruto),” during the burial of Embakasi North MP James Gakuya.

Possible realignment

Political observers say the Machakos meeting could indicate early coalition negotiations, though current alliances remain complex.

While Oburu has maintained ties with President William Ruto through the ODM-UDA working arrangement, that does not necessarily preclude engagement with the United Opposition.

“If Oburu will opt to work with the Kalonzo team, that will not be any strange because Kalonzo supported Raila in his three presidential attempts, even in 2022, when he was not chosen as his running mate,” says James Waithaka, a Nairobi-based political analyst.

As political realignments intensify, the meeting in Machakos is seen as a potential first step toward strategic alliances that could reshape the 2027 electoral landscape.