Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has intensified his criticism of President William Ruto’s administration, accusing it of failing to deliver on key promises made to Kenyans during the 2022 General Election, as details of their political fallout continue to shape the country’s shifting power dynamics.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms, Gachagua questioned the government’s record on universal healthcare, education, taxation and job creation, saying millions of Kenyans were yet to feel the impact of the pledges made.
“Where is the Universal Healthcare promised? Where is free primary and secondary school education? Where is the lower tax regime promised?” he posed.
He further alleged mismanagement of public resources, claiming funds meant for healthcare and school capitation had been misused, and warned that the country’s youth were bearing the brunt of the economic strain.
“They have stolen our resources; they are now stealing the future of our young people,” he said.
Gachagua’s latest remarks come months after his dramatic political break with Ruto, a fallout that has redefined alliances within Kenya Kwanza. Once close allies who rode to power on a united ticket in 2022, the two leaders began drifting apart amid reports of internal power struggles, policy disagreements and accusations of sidelining.
The rift became more pronounced as Gachagua publicly complained of being excluded from key government decisions and accused unnamed individuals within the administration of undermining him. Allies of the former deputy president have also claimed he was targeted politically for resisting what they described as opaque dealings within government.
On his part, Ruto has largely downplayed the fallout, maintaining that his administration remains focused on delivering its development agenda. However, the widening divide has been evident in public appearances, with the two leaders increasingly operating from separate political platforms.
The remarks come against the backdrop of rising concerns over the cost of living, with Kenyans grappling with higher taxes and reduced disposable income.
Gachagua also raised concerns over alleged police brutality during protests, saying no parent should lose a child due to what he termed as excessive use of force.
The former deputy president spoke after a political gathering at Tononoka Grounds, where he claimed Kenyans had expressed a desire for change ahead of the 2027 General Election.
He called on citizens to “reclaim their dignity” through the ballot, describing the next election, set for August 10, 2027, as a decisive moment for the country.
The government has previously defended its policies, attributing economic challenges to global pressures while maintaining that reforms are underway to improve service delivery and stabilize the economy.
