Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has intensified his attacks on President William Ruto's administration, accusing it of "stealing the future" of Kenyans through policies he says have crippled the economy and worsened the cost of living.
Addressing supporters in Kitale Town, Trans Nzoia County, on Saturday, Mr Gachagua painted a grim picture of the country's state, claiming that key sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture and security were struggling under the current administration.
"They are robbing the future of our nation and our children. They have mutilated our economy. Kenya is on autopilot and in a free-fall," Mr Gachagua said.
The former deputy president questioned the government's performance across several sectors, citing delayed capitation to schools, financial challenges facing universities and colleges, rising public debt and declining employment opportunities.
He also expressed concern over what he termed growing economic hardship among ordinary Kenyans, arguing that businesses were closing while farmers continued to face mounting challenges.
"Take a moment. Is healthcare working? Are we secure as a nation? Do our schools have capitation? Are our colleges and universities in good financial shape? How is our diplomacy?" he posed.
Mr Gachagua further claimed that the country was grappling with debt-related pressures and increasing levels of stress among citizens due to economic difficulties.
His remarks come amid heightened political activity as opposition leaders seek to rally support against the Kenya Kwanza administration ahead of the next electoral cycle.
The government has consistently defended its economic policies, arguing that reforms being implemented are necessary to stabilise public finances, spur investment and create jobs despite short-term challenges.
Mr Gachagua urged Kenyans to unite in efforts to restore what he described as the country's lost promise.
"We must get back our country," he said as he concluded his address.
The former deputy president has in recent months emerged as one of President Ruto's fiercest critics, frequently accusing the administration of failing to address the concerns of ordinary Kenyans.
This version mirrors the structure commonly used by Nation: a strong headline, attribution of claims, context, balance, and background in the closing paragraphs.
