Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has launched a fresh attack on President William Ruto, accusing him of mismanaging the economy, frustrating Kenyans and using financial handouts to win political support ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Gachagua said the President was increasingly frustrated by growing opposition to his leadership, citing concerns over the cost of living, governance and alleged human rights violations.
“This man has gone berserk!” Gachagua declared.
He accused Ruto’s administration of presiding over abductions, extrajudicial killings, alleged theft of public funds and failed policies, further claiming that the government had mishandled the economy.
Gachagua’s remarks followed a commentary published by The Standard newspaper titled Misplaced Anger, which questioned the President’s priorities amid economic difficulties facing the country.
The newspaper criticised Ruto’s reported attacks on former President Uhuru Kenyatta and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, arguing that the government should focus on the challenges affecting ordinary Kenyans.
“With the economy on its knees, universities paralysed, families struggling to put food on the table, crops failing and debt choking citizens and the government,” the publication stated, questioning whether the President was addressing the country’s problems or creating political enemies.
Gachagua echoed the criticism, describing Ruto as “frustrated, bitter, desperate, and angry” and accusing him of using abusive language to respond to political opponents.
He further alleged that the President was attempting to regain public support through financial handouts, claiming that Kenyans were demanding money during his public engagements, including in the Rift Valley.
The former deputy president also turned his attention to fuel prices, alleging that the government had ordered an increase of KSh9 per litre for diesel and KSh12 for petrol to raise money for political activities.
“Desperate to raise more cash, last evening, he ruthlessly ordered an increase in the price of diesel by Kshs. 9 and petrol by Kshs. 12, to be processed through Gulf Energy for political bribery,” Gachagua claimed.
He also accused Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi of being directed to justify the reported increases by citing global oil prices, dismissing the explanation as “lies and conmanship.”
Gachagua, however, did not provide evidence to support his allegation that the fuel price changes were intended to finance political bribery.
The latest remarks deepen the political rivalry between Gachagua and Ruto, whose relationship collapsed before Parliament impeached the former deputy president in October 2024.
Looking ahead to the next General Election, Gachagua warned that the President would face a political reckoning.
“The 10th August 2027 reality is setting in on him!” he said.