Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has escalated his criticisms of President William Ruto, describing the Head of State’s recent State of the Nation address as “useless” and lacking meaningful content.
Addressing energized supporters during by-election campaigns, Gachagua accused President Ruto of presenting theatrics rather than genuine progress. He claimed the address showcased no real achievements and said it failed to reflect the hardships facing Kenyans.
Gachagua also alleged that the government has mismanaged public resources and presided over “a period marked by lawlessness.” He cited reports of abductions and insecurity as evidence of the administration’s failure, arguing that these issues undermine the credibility of the President’s message.
Taking particular issue with the allocation of Ksh.500 million to Mbeere North, Gachagua questioned why such an amount would be spent in an area lacking basic infrastructure like water, electricity, and roads. “If you were nice people, you should have used the money to bring development to the people so that they remember you,” he told the crowd.
He further criticized the President’s remarks in Parliament, claiming they were disconnected from reality. “Kasongo ako Bunge kusomea watu barua refu ati asomee Wakenya kile amefanya na hajafanya. Ni uongo si uongo? Hakuna haja ya kumskiza,” he said, accusing the President of making empty promises. “Alituambia atatuwekea pesa kwa mfuko, na badala yake ile kidogo tulikua nayo akachukua.”
Gachagua urged residents of Mbeere North and the broader Mt. Kenya region to use the November 27 by-election as an opportunity to express their dissatisfaction with President Ruto. He accused the president his former ally of political betrayal and warned that the region would lead what he termed an upcoming political “reckoning.”
The DCP leader has been rallying support for Newton Kariuki, the Democratic Party (DP) candidate, marking his fourth day of intensive campaigns in the constituency. Earlier in the week, Gachagua held well-attended rallies in Ciangera Shopping Centre and Kavengero in Evurore Ward, following extensive door-to-door mobilization drives.
As political temperatures rise ahead of the by-election, Gachagua’s remarks signal a sharpening divide within the political landscape, setting the stage for a highly watched contest that could shape political alliances ahead of the 2027 elections.
