Former Nyeri MP Ngunjiri Wambugu has criticised President William Ruto’s recent pledge to transform Kenya into a first-world nation by 2055, arguing that the vision lacks substance and does not address the country’s persistent challenges.

Speaking on a local TV station on October 13, 2025, Wambugu referenced Sauti Sol’s 2019 protest song “Tujiangalie,” which highlights Kenya’s ongoing social and economic issues.

“Sauti Sol’s song ‘Tujiangalie’ is as true today as it was six years ago. The country is not getting any better,” Wambugu said, emphasising the song’s continued relevance.

Lyrics highlight persistent challenges

Wambugu drew attention to the lyrics of “Tujiangalie,” noting their resonance with current frustrations.

Lines such as “Barua toka Jaramogi na Kenyatta, wanauliza kama Kenya kuko sawa, nikawajibu Kenya tuko na disaster and “Tuko pabaya leo kuliko jana” reflect issues like corruption, debt, and division.

Wambugu questioned Ruto’s long-term plan, asking, “Ruto’s remarks about Kenya becoming a ‘first world’ nation by 2055 are meant to give Kenyans hope, but what happened to Vision 2030?”

He highlighted the unfulfilled targets of the earlier national development strategy.

Nelson Havi, Former LSK President, also in the interview, noted that President Ruto has shown a failure to comprehend his responsibilities as Head of State, and his engagements must be purposeful for the benefit of the people of Kenya

Election priorities and political critique

Wambugu’s comments extended to the political landscape, suggesting that the 2027 elections focus more on politicians’ ambitions than on ordinary Kenyans.

“The next election seems to serve the interests of politicians, not ordinary Kenyans.

“Those insisting that we should focus on 2027 are seeking to exchange places with the current government, but people can’t wait that long for real change,” he said.

His critique aligns with that of Advocate Ndegwa Njiru, who dismissed Ruto’s ability to deliver on the 2055 vision.

“You have no capacity for setting the pace, let alone the foundation for what you are yapping about,” Njiru posted on X on October 13, 2025.

Ruto articulated the 30-year plan during a church service marking the 70th anniversary of AIC Ziwani, drawing comparisons to Singapore and China, and promising solutions to issues such as Nairobi’s garbage problem and road infrastructure.