Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has challenged Ruto’s administration to fulfill its promises to the Kenyan people.
Speaking at the PCEA Kerarapon Church’s centenary celebrations in Kajiado on Sunday, Gachagua adopted a notably detached stance, expressing relief at no longer bearing responsibility for the nation’s challenges and suggesting that others must now account for ongoing policy concerns. The former deputy president, flanked by several parliamentarians, particularly questioned the persistence of high taxation rates and controversial policies. Meanwhile, President William Ruto, during his visit to Nairobi’s Soweto informal settlement, emphasized his commitment to national unity that transcends ethnic and political divisions.
“I just sit and watch. Even former President Uhuru Kenyatta said on Saturday that he just watches TV and listens to the radio. I also do the same. Let us wait and see how things will go. If Gachagua was the problem and you increased taxes, why don’t you lower them now that he has left office? If Gachagua stalled projects, they can now be completed,” he added.
The President outlines his administration’s focus on key pillars including food security, affordable housing, universal health coverage, and education, while making financial pledges toward church development projects. The political dialogue has been further enriched by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki’s statements in Kirinyaga, where he expressed the government’s receptiveness to constructive criticism regarding Kenya Kwanza’s campaign promises. Kindiki specifically welcomed input from religious institutions, civil society organizations, and NGOs regarding governmental performance.
Gachagua also addressed recent tensions between the government and religious leaders, particularly criticizing the administration’s initial response to concerns raised by Catholic bishops. He praised President Ruto’s subsequent acknowledgment of these concerns while condemning alleged surveillance of church activities by state officials. The political discourse is further contextualized by Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah who commends President Ruto’s engagement with religious leaders while emphasizing the continued need for accountability in delivering on campaign promises.
