Democracy for the Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua has responded sharply to remarks by President William Ruto, rejecting claims that the opposition is responsible for damaging Kenya’s image abroad.
Speaking during a church service at ACK Church Kimathi in Ndia, Kirinyaga, Gachagua said the country’s reputation has instead been affected by the actions and decisions of the current government.
He told the congregation that recent criticism directed at Kenya on the international stage is not driven by opposition voices but by issues arising within the administration itself. According to him, concerns such as alleged abductions, reported killings, and claims of interference in Sudan’s affairs have contributed to negative attention from outside the country. He argued that these matters should be addressed directly rather than shifting blame to political rivals.
Gachagua also raised concerns about what he described as a lack of focus by the president, accusing him of paying more attention to early political campaigns ahead of the 2027 General
Election instead of addressing challenges affecting ordinary citizens. He pointed to difficulties in key sectors such as healthcare and agriculture, saying these areas are facing serious strain.
On healthcare, he claimed that the Social Health Authority system is struggling and placing pressure on hospitals. He suggested that many facilities are finding it difficult to operate effectively under the current conditions. In agriculture, he said farmers are not receiving the support they were promised, especially when it comes to access to subsidised fertiliser.
According to Gachagua, many farmers have been forced to turn to private agro-vet shops, which increases their costs.
The former deputy president also questioned the government’s priorities, saying more attention should be given to domestic issues rather than regional matters like Sudan. He urged the president to focus on solving problems at home and to stop blaming the opposition for the country’s challenges.
Turning to regional politics, Gachagua criticised some leaders from the Mt Kenya region, claiming they have failed to speak out on issues affecting their constituents. He said weak leadership has allowed problems in the region to continue without proper action.
He also alleged that illicit alcohol has returned in parts of Mt Kenya, saying efforts made during his time in government to control the trade have not been sustained. In addition, he criticised National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, Ndia MP George Kariuki, and Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri, accusing them of working against the interests of residents in the region.
Gachagua used the gathering to promote his party, saying the Mt Kenya region needs a strong political platform to address its concerns. He presented the Democracy for the Citizens Party as a suitable vehicle for advancing the region’s interests and called on residents to support it.
He was joined at the event by several leaders, including Kirinyaga Senator James Kamau Murango, Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, and Kirinyaga Woman Representative Jane Njeri, among others.
