Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has publicly challenged President William Ruto ahead of his scheduled national address, urging the President to focus on accountability rather than long-term visions.
Speaking at his Nyeri residence to a group of clergy, Gachagua predicted that Ruto's speech would emphasize an ambitious Vision 2060 plan, including appointing former President Uhuru Kenyatta to lead the initiative. He cautioned Kenyatta against involvement, describing it as a potential political misstep.
Gachagua called on the President to instead provide a clear account of achievements made during the past year, highlighting key issues such as security, education, and healthcare that remain unaddressed. He questioned the government's handling of security, citing alleged abductions and extrajudicial killings of Gen Z protesters and describing the police force as increasingly associated with violence.
The Democracy for the Citizens Party leader also criticized the government for purported attempts to block live streaming of election results by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), insisting that transparency must be upheld.
Further, Gachagua singled out Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale for focusing on political attacks rather than improving health services, urging the President’s team to prioritize service delivery over campaigning as the next general election approaches.
He concluded by emphasizing the need for the government to clarify its position on accepting election outcomes and to address funding and operational challenges within basic and higher education sectors, as well as issues related to the Social Health Authority (SHA).
