WANGIGE, Kenya – Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged President William Ruto to unveil new development projects in the Mount Kenya region instead of taking credit for initiatives launched by his predecessor, Uhuru Kenyatta.
Speaking in Wangige, Kiambu County, on Monday, Gachagua accused the President of failing to deliver tangible results for the region nearly two and a half years into his tenure.
His remarks come ahead of Ruto’s five-day tour of the vote-rich region, where he is expected to commission completed projects, inspect ongoing ones, and unveil new developments across Laikipia, Nyeri, Meru, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Murang’a, Embu, Tharaka-Nithi, and Kiambu counties.
“As you come here, speak the truth. All these projects in the Mt Kenya region were initiated by former President Uhuru Kenyatta. You have refused to complete them. None is yours. Do not dare lie to the people,” Gachagua told a gathering, taking a direct swipe at his former boss.
Gachagua, who was impeached from Ruto’s government in October, accused the President of making empty promises to the region and failing to initiate any significant development since assuming office.
His sharp criticism underscores growing political tensions within the Kenya Kwanza government.
Ruto’s visit to Mount Kenya marks his first in nearly six months.
His itinerary includes projects in critical sectors such as road infrastructure, affordable housing, fresh produce markets, last-mile electricity connectivity, water, and irrigation.
However, Ruto’s allies have dismissed Gachagua’s remarks, accusing him of attempting to incite the region against the President.
They maintain that the government is on track with its development agenda and that Ruto’s visit will highlight the administration’s achievements in the region.
The visit is expected to be a litmus test for Ruto’s support in the region, which overwhelmingly voted for him in 2022.
