Gachagua Escalates Attacks on Ruto as 2027 Political Battle Intensifies

Nairobi, Kenya | August 11, 2026

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has intensified his criticism of President William Ruto and his administration as political activity gathers pace ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Speaking during his ongoing political engagements, Gachagua accused the Ruto administration of excessive concentration of power and what he described as state capture. He also criticised the President's leadership style, describing the presidency as increasingly “imperial.”

Gachagua also criticised some of the government's flagship programmes, including the Hustler Fund, which he described as a failed initiative that had not delivered the benefits promised to ordinary Kenyans.

The former Deputy President has repeatedly criticised the government over the rising cost of living, insecurity and economic challenges, arguing that the administration has failed to meet some of the expectations it raised during the 2022 election campaign.

His latest remarks form part of an increasingly assertive opposition campaign against Ruto, with Gachagua seeking to mobilise voters ahead of the 2027 election. He has previously declared that the campaign to send the Kenya Kwanza administration home has begun and has been touring different parts of the country to consolidate political support.

Gachagua's renewed criticism comes as Kenya's political landscape continues to shift. President Ruto's UDA is working closely with ODM under the broad-based government, while opposition leaders seek to build an alternative political coalition ahead of the next General Election.

The growing political exchanges between Gachagua and Ruto are expected to intensify as the country moves closer to the 2027 polls, with both sides seeking to shape public opinion and consolidate support across key voting regions.

With one year remaining before the scheduled General Election, Gachagua's latest remarks mark another development in his strained political relationship with his former ally, President Ruto.