Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has intensified criticism of President William Ruto’s administration, accusing it of being founded on lies and deception while calling for economic justice, dignity, and respect for ordinary Kenyans.

In a statement posted on his X account dated Friday, April 17, 2026, Gachagua said the dignity and economic welfare of Kenyans are non-negotiable and warned against what he termed falsehoods and trickery.

He made the remarks following a public engagement in Ruiru Township Constituency in Kiambu County attended by leaders from across the country.

Ruiru engagement and political remarks

Gachagua said, “It was a great privilege to engage with the people of Ruiru Township Constituency in Kiambu County this afternoon alongside leaders from across the country.

The meeting was attended by Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi and Senator Karungo Thang’wa, alongside other leaders.

The engagement formed part of heightened political activity in the Mt Kenya region, where Gachagua continues to maintain significant grassroots support following his 2024 impeachment from office. The gathering also reflected ongoing mobilisation efforts by allied leaders seeking to consolidate influence ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Mounting criticism of governance

Gachagua has continued to criticise the government over economic and governance challenges, including unemployment among young people, strained public services, and land issues in several counties.

He stated, “Kenya’s economy is hurting the worst in history,” he said. “Our young people have no jobs; their education has been badly mutilated. Kenyans have no healthcare.”

He also raised concerns over infrastructure gaps in areas such as Kiserian, urging residents to remain resilient amid ongoing hardships. His remarks come amid rising political debate over the cost of living and service delivery across the country, with leaders presenting contrasting assessments of the state of the economy and governance performance.

Accountability message ahead of 2027 elections

Gachagua warned of political accountability ahead of the 2027 General Election, stating, “There will be no escape route for liars, corrupt oligarchs, looters, thieves of public resources, land grabbers, and all manner of leaders who have stained Kenya,” he asserted.

He further accused advisers around President Ruto, including Member of Parliament Kimani Ichung’wa, of betraying community interests and cautioned against organised political violence.

He compared such developments to instability seen in Sudan and Haiti, warning that unchecked groups could undermine national cohesion.

He also referenced the requiem mass for the late David Njugua in Nyandarua County, where he previously engaged the president during a tense public encounter involving leaders from the Mt Kenya region.