Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has dismissed the opposition leaders’ criticism of the government’s development progress in various parts of the country

In a statement on his official X account on Saturday, April 18, 2026, Duale directly cautioned against what he called “baseless criticism” from the opposition.

At the same time, emphasising that President Ruto’s inclusive approach is uniting and transforming regions long considered peripheral.

“Moreover, I cautioned against baseless criticism from the opposition, noting that the president’s inclusive approach to development is steadily uniting and transforming all regions of the country,” Duale stated

Gachagua on SHA

Duale’s remarks come weeks after the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua hit back at President William Ruto over claims that the opposition is tarnishing Kenya’s image internationally, insisting the country’s reputation has been damaged by the conduct of the government.

Speaking at ACK Church Kimathi in Ndia, Kirinyaga, Gachagua accused Ruto of neglecting his duties and focusing on early campaigns ahead of the 2027 General Election, while key sectors struggle.

“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, as he cited a string of issues he claimed have attracted international criticism, including alleged abductions and killings, and accusations of interference in Sudan’s affairs.

Gachagua also claimed the government was “collapsing”, pointing to challenges in healthcare and agriculture.

“The SHA is collapsing, taking hospitals down with it,” he said, alleging that facilities are under strain. He also claimed farmers have been forced to buy fertiliser from agro-vets due to a lack of subsidised options, saying government promises to support farmers have not been met.

The former deputy president further questioned Ruto’s priorities, accusing him of focusing more on Sudan than addressing problems at home, and urged the President to stop blaming the opposition.