Kirinyaga, Kenya — Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has strongly criticised President William Ruto, dismissing claims that the opposition is responsible for damaging Kenya’s international reputation.
Speaking at ACK Church Kimathi in Ndia, Kirinyaga County, Gachagua argued that it is the government’s conduct—not opposition voices—that has drawn criticism from the global community.
“We heard the president say that we in the opposition are spoiling the name of the country. We want to tell him it is not us, it is him,” Gachagua said.
Accusations of Governance Failures
The former deputy president cited a series of concerns he claimed have eroded Kenya’s standing internationally, including alleged cases of abductions and killings, as well as accusations of interference in Sudan’s internal affairs.
Gachagua further painted a grim picture of the country’s state of governance, alleging that key sectors are struggling under the current administration.
He singled out the Social Health Authority (SHA), claiming it is collapsing and placing immense pressure on hospitals across the country.
“The SHA is collapsing, taking hospitals down with it,” he stated.
In the agricultural sector, Gachagua accused the government of failing to deliver on its promise of subsidised fertiliser, claiming farmers have been left with no option but to purchase inputs from agro-vets at higher prices.
Claims of Misplaced Priorities
Gachagua also questioned President Ruto’s priorities, accusing him of focusing on foreign affairs at the expense of domestic challenges.
According to the DCP leader, the President has devoted more attention to issues in Sudan while critical problems affecting Kenyans remain unresolved.
He urged Ruto to stop shifting blame to the opposition and instead address the pressing concerns facing citizens.
Mt Kenya Leadership Under Fire
Turning his focus to the Mt Kenya region, Gachagua criticised local leaders, accusing them of failing to defend the interests of their constituents.
He claimed the region continues to face persistent challenges due to what he termed as weak leadership that is unwilling to challenge the executive.
The DCP leader also alleged a resurgence of illicit alcohol in parts of Mt Kenya, saying efforts he initiated to curb the trade during his tenure have since been reversed.
Political Tensions and Impeachment Claims
Gachagua further took aim at National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, Ndia MP George Kariuki, and Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri, accusing them of being used to undermine Mt Kenya residents.
He also claimed that meetings linked to an alleged impeachment push were held at a Nairobi hotel associated with one of the leaders, though he did not provide further details.
DCP Positioning Ahead of 2027
Gachagua used the church event to rally support for his Democracy for the Citizens Party, positioning it as the political vehicle capable of addressing the region’s grievances.
He called on Mt Kenya residents to unite behind the party, arguing that strong political organisation is necessary to safeguard their interests ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The event was attended by several leaders, including Kirinyaga Senator James Kamau Murango, Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, and Kirinyaga Woman Representative Jane Njeri.
