Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has intensified his criticism of President William Ruto’s administration, accusing it of economic mismanagement and turning against ordinary Kenyans.
Speaking in Samburu, Kinango Constituency in Kwale County, Gachagua claimed the government had failed to deliver on its promises of prosperity, instead presiding over what he termed as hardship and economic decline.
“They promised us prosperity and good life, we are only witnessing bravado, war against the poor and looting of private property,” he said. “The country is on autopilot. The pilot lost his mind mid-air.”
Gachagua made the remarks as he joined Kalonzo Musyoka during the opening of a Wiper Patriotic Front party office, in a move seen as part of efforts by opposition leaders to consolidate support at the Coast.
He said residents he met expressed frustration over the rising cost of living, high taxes and shrinking incomes, sentiments that have increasingly dominated public discourse in recent months. Traders and small-scale business owners have complained of reduced purchasing power, while households say basic commodities remain unaffordable.
“People are suffering. Every coin they earn is stretched thin by taxes and the high cost of essentials,” said a trader in Samburu who attended the event.
However, President Ruto has repeatedly defended his administration’s policies, arguing that tough economic measures—including tax increases—are necessary to stabilise the economy, reduce public debt and fund development.
Ruto has maintained that his government inherited a struggling economy and that reforms under his administration are beginning to bear fruit, pointing to improved revenue collection and ongoing infrastructure projects. He has also urged patience, saying the benefits of the policies will be felt in the long term.
Gachagua dismissed these claims, accusing the government of shifting blame to the opposition instead of addressing citizens’ concerns.
“Today, they are all over blaming the United Opposition when the country is on its knees,” he said. “It is time to kick them out. We must get back a country where every coin of the taxpayer shilling works for Kenyans.”
The exchange reflects growing political tension, with opposition leaders ramping up criticism as economic pressures persist, setting the stage for an increasingly charged political environment in the months ahead.
