Gachagua Accuses Ruto of Blaming Uhuru Kenyatta for Leadership Failures

Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has criticised President William Ruto for what he describes as attempts to shift responsibility for his administration’s shortcomings onto former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Gachagua accused President Ruto of invoking his predecessor whenever questions arise about his leadership and governance record.

"President Uhuru Kenyatta is not your opponent in this election. You are just trying a bad deflection. Poor tactic Mr. Ruto, but we know you very well," Gachagua said.

The former Deputy President also argued that Ruto’s administration had demonstrated what he considers a failure of leadership, calling for his removal from office in the 2027 General Election.

Gachagua Calls for Change in 2027

Gachagua maintained that President Ruto’s administration had fallen short of expectations, arguing that the President should be held accountable for the country’s challenges.

"President Uhuru Kenyatta did not sufficiently convince me and a majority of Kenyans that you were incapable of leading the country, that you were viciously corrupt, and that you would completely ruin our country in less than three years," he said.

"Today, you have proven to me and the whole country that President Uhuru was right. Based on that, he has no further role in convincing us that we must get rid of you on 10th August 2027 at the ballot."

Gachagua’s remarks followed President Ruto’s comments during a campaign event in Siaya County on Tuesday, where the President described Uhuru Kenyatta as a "rebel leader" and accused him of failing to embrace the role of a statesman after leaving office.

Ruto also alleged that Kenyatta continued to support opposition activities aimed at destabilising his administration.

Ruto Criticises Uhuru’s Political Activities

Responding to questions about the former President’s political role, Ruto said:

"Mimi nashangaa, mtu ambaye amekuwa Rais wa Kenya, unaacha kiti ya Rais, badala ya kwenda kuwa statesman, unaenda kuwa rebel leader, kiongozi wa upinzani. Mpaka saa hii korti inamwambia atoke."

The President’s remarks referenced a court ruling concerning Uhuru Kenyatta’s leadership of the Jubilee Party.

The exchange highlights the continuing political tensions between the current administration and figures associated with the previous government, as political parties and leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 elections.

Gachagua Lists Challenges Facing Kenyans

In his statement, Gachagua shifted attention to what he identified as the key concerns facing citizens, including the cost of living, healthcare, education and employment.

"55 million Kenyans are your opponents. Have you ever heard of a President hated even by children? Even the worst dictators do better. Your ranking is on another level," he said.

Gachagua further criticised the government over allegations involving the treatment of young people, healthcare access, business conditions and the financial pressures facing workers.

He argued that the administration should focus on addressing these concerns rather than directing political attention towards its predecessor.

Opposition Mobilisation Ahead of 2027

The DCP leader also dismissed the idea that opposition leaders would require financial sponsorship to challenge Ruto in the next presidential election.

"Be advised that the leaders tasked with the responsibility of removing you from office by Kenyans require no sponsorship. They have clear, and sufficient instructions from the people of Kenya," Gachagua said.

He added that economic hardship and public dissatisfaction would influence the electorate’s decisions in 2027.

Gachagua has been conducting a campaign tour in the United States, where he is seeking support among Kenyans living abroad as part of his political efforts ahead of the next General Election.

The latest exchange between Gachagua and Ruto adds to the political debate surrounding the government’s record, the role of former leaders and the emerging alliances ahead of the 2027 polls.