Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has intensified his criticism of President William Ruto’s administration, accusing it of using excessive force against peaceful protesters and targeting small-scale traders in Nairobi.
Gachagua, who was impeached last year following a bitter fallout within the Kenya Kwanza coalition, has since emerged as one of the most vocal critics of the government he once served in. His latest remarks signal an escalation in his attacks on President Ruto’s leadership.
In a strongly worded statement shared on his social media platforms, Gachagua said no amount of force could suppress the will of Kenyans demanding their rights.
“Teargas, bullets, and all weapons that exist cannot extinguish the will of the people of Kenya,” he said. “A government scared of its people has no legitimacy.”
He directly addressed President Ruto, warning him against what he described as authoritarian tendencies.
“Mr. William Ruto, you have chosen a path travelled by a few African dictators, and you know what befell them when their time came,” he said.
Gachagua condemned the reported use of live ammunition against demonstrators in Nairobi’s Central Business District, terming it “cowardly” and a dangerous slide toward anarchy. He maintained that citizens have a constitutional right to assemble and express their grievances without intimidation.
“Using live ammunition on peaceful citizens in Nairobi’s CBD demanding their rights is cowardly and a dangerous path to anarchy. We shall not be cowed,” he declared.
In a separate statement, he turned his attention to traders in Nyamakima, describing the business hub as central to Nairobi’s commercial history and the livelihoods of thousands across the country.
“Nyamakima is historic in shaping the business environment of Nairobi and a majority of traders across the country,” he said.
He accused the government of deliberately mistreating traders in the area.
“The calculated and purposive mistreatment they have received from this double-reckless regime is archaic and must be stopped. Kenyans are awake,” he said.
Gachagua’s remarks come against the backdrop of sustained public anger over the high cost of living, new taxes and allegations of heavy-handed policing during protests. Human rights organisations have in recent months raised concern over the conduct of security agencies, urging restraint and adherence to constitutional freedoms.
The government has previously defended police operations, saying they are aimed at maintaining order and protecting property.
Since his impeachment, Gachagua has repositioned himself as a defender of small traders and ordinary citizens, increasingly taking positions that sharply contrast with those of the administration he once helped to form.
