From Left, Former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti, PNU Party Leader Peter Munya and DP Party Leader Justin Muturi during a press conference on August 4, 2026. [Boniface Okendo, Standard]
Party of National Unity (PNU) leader Peter Munya has escalated a growing political dispute with Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua.
Munya accuse the former Deputy President of being a "bully" whose confrontational style risks undermining efforts to unite the opposition ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The sharp exchange comes amid widening debate over the structure and leadership of the opposition coalition, with Munya insisting that cooperation can only succeed if political leaders treat one another with respect instead of issuing ultimatums and belittling rival parties.
Speaking on a TV interview after Gachagua challenged smaller political parties to demonstrate their political strength before seeking coalition talks, Munya dismissed the remarks as disrespectful and divisive.
Gachagua, speaking at his Wamunyoro home in Nyeri County, maintained that his party was open to working with all opposition outfits but argued that parties seeking negotiations should first demonstrate they have grassroots support.
"I want to clarify today that DCP and Rigathi Gachagua welcome all political parties. They come. We compete fairly," Gachagua said.