NAIROBI, Kenya – Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has claimed that dissatisfaction with President William Ruto’s administration is widespread across the country — not just in the Mt. Kenya region.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, Gachagua dismissed claims that discontent is isolated to his Kikuyu political stronghold, saying Kenyans from all backgrounds are grappling with similar economic and political frustrations.
“It is not the Kikuyus who want him out of office, it is the entire people of Kenya,” he said. “Kenyans are suffering equally across the country; that is why Kenyans are saying if you believe that it is the Kikuyus who want you out, then all Kenyans are Kikuyus.”
Gachagua also condemned what he termed as the profiling of the Kikuyu community by the government, warning that such tactics are divisive and risk stoking ethnic tensions.
The former DP dismissed allegations that opposition leaders are plotting to remove President Ruto through unconstitutional means, saying the claims are unfounded and intended to distract from genuine public grievances.
“There is no leader here planning a coup. So, relax and see us make you a one-term president in the elections in August 2027,” Gachagua said.
His remarks come amid escalating political tensions following weeks of anti-government protests, with opposition voices increasingly rallying around calls for accountability and inclusive leadership.
Earlier in the day, President Ruto responded to mounting criticism while inspecting an affordable housing project for police officers in Kilimani, Nairobi.
The Head of State warned opposition leaders against seeking power through unlawful means.
“Kama wako na mpango, si tukutane 2027. Watengeneze sera yao tukutane nao 2027. Njia ya mkato hapa katikati hakuna,” Ruto said.
The President accused some leaders of trying to derail the government using what he described as “unconstitutional means,” declaring that such attempts would not succeed under his watch.
“This country will not be destroyed by a few people who are impatient and want a change of government through illegal methods,” he added.
Ruto also made a call for unity and civility in politics, urging leaders to abandon tribalism, arrogance, hatred, and disrespect.
“Sisi wote ni Wakenya, na hakuna Mkenya bora kuliko mwenzake,” he said.
