KAKAMEGA, Kenya – Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called on President William Ruto to shift his focus from blaming parents for societal challenges and prioritize ending abductions across Kenya.
Speaking in Kakamega on Sunday, December 29, Gachagua criticized Ruto’s recent comments linking the abduction crisis to perceived moral decay among the youth, arguing that the government’s primary role is to protect its citizens.
“No circumstances justify abductions,” Gachagua said. “The government’s job is to ensure the safety of its people, not to deflect responsibility by pointing fingers at parents or youth behavior.”
Ruto, addressing a congregation earlier in Bomet County, had suggested that moral decline among the youth—evident in their social media behavior mocking leaders—contributed to the rise in abductions.
He urged parents to take a more active role in instilling values in their children.
But Gachagua dismissed this view as misplaced.
He argued that the government should focus on dismantling abduction networks and addressing economic challenges rather than interfering with parenting styles.
“Parents know how to raise their children,” Gachagua said. “The president’s mandate is to transform the economy and end these kidnappings. It’s disrespectful to tell parents how to raise their kids. You were elected to work for Kenyans, not lecture them about parenting.”
While opposing Ruto’s stance, Gachagua lauded the youth for their active role in highlighting societal issues, particularly through social media.
He urged young Kenyans to channel their activism into political action by registering as voters ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“These young people are doing a great job exposing societal ills. But it’s not enough. I urge them to go further—get IDs, register as voters, and use their voices to bring about lasting political change,” he said.
In his remarks, President Ruto reiterated the need for a collective approach to youth mentorship.
Speaking in Konoin, Bomet County, he called on parents, religious leaders, and politicians to guide the younger generation toward meaningful futures.
“We do not have the luxury of blaming each other,” Ruto said. “We must secure the future of our children by providing mentorship, education, and support to keep them away from harmful influences like drugs and violence.”
Speaking in Kakamega on Sunday, December 29, Gachagua criticized Ruto’s recent comments linking the abduction crisis to perceived moral decay among the youth, arguing that the government’s primary role is to protect its citizens.
“No circumstances justify abductions,” Gachagua said. “The government’s job is to ensure the safety of its people, not to deflect responsibility by pointing fingers at parents or youth behavior.”
Ruto, addressing a congregation earlier in Bomet County, had suggested that moral decline among the youth—evident in their social media behavior mocking leaders—contributed to the rise in abductions.
He urged parents to take a more active role in instilling values in their children.
But Gachagua dismissed this view as misplaced.
He argued that the government should focus on dismantling abduction networks and addressing economic challenges rather than interfering with parenting styles.
“Parents know how to raise their children,” Gachagua said. “The president’s mandate is to transform the economy and end these kidnappings. It’s disrespectful to tell parents how to raise their kids. You were elected to work for Kenyans, not lecture them about parenting.”
While opposing Ruto’s stance, Gachagua lauded the youth for their active role in highlighting societal issues, particularly through social media.
He urged young Kenyans to channel their activism into political action by registering as voters ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“These young people are doing a great job exposing societal ills. But it’s not enough. I urge them to go further—get IDs, register as voters, and use their voices to bring about lasting political change,” he said.
In his remarks, President Ruto reiterated the need for a collective approach to youth mentorship.
Speaking in Konoin, Bomet County, he called on parents, religious leaders, and politicians to guide the younger generation toward meaningful futures.
“We do not have the luxury of blaming each other,” Ruto said. “We must secure the future of our children by providing mentorship, education, and support to keep them away from harmful influences like drugs and violence.”
