Gachagua Intensifies Criticism of Ruto Government Over KRA, SHA and Political Alliances

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has intensified his criticism of President William Ruto’s administration, accusing the government of using state agencies to intimidate Kenyans and questioning the effectiveness of the Social Health Authority (SHA).

Speaking during a meeting with Laikipia County Deputy County Party (DCP) aspirants, Gachagua claimed that businesses were facing increased pressure from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), alleging that traders were being subjected to tax demands and official notices.

“People are crying. Agents and notices. Tunawindwa kama wanyama,” Gachagua said, claiming that he too was being pursued by state authorities.

The former Deputy President also sought to assure the aspirants that the party nominations would be conducted freely and fairly. He dismissed concerns surrounding photographs showing him alongside individuals linked to recent political confrontations.

Gachagua Questions SHA's Effectiveness

Gachagua also turned his attention to the government’s healthcare reforms, raising questions about the performance of SHA.

He claimed that delegations visiting Kenya over the previous two months had expressed concerns about the health insurance system.

“Is SHA working? Where does this man live?” he asked, in an apparent reference to President Ruto.

Gachagua further alleged that billions of shillings had been lost through the health system and claimed that a private company was receiving a two per cent payment. He alleged that the company had links to President Ruto and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and was headquartered in Dubai.

The allegations were made during his broader criticism of the Kenya Kwanza administration. Gachagua accused the government of weakening the rule of law and referred to Murkomen as the “CS for state terror and coordination of goons.”

Attack on Ruto-ODM Cooperation

The former Deputy President also criticised the recent political cooperation between Ruto and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), arguing that the President had effectively “bought” the party.

Gachagua maintained that the Luo community remained politically independent and would make its own decision in the next election.

He criticised several ODM-aligned leaders who have worked with the Ruto administration, including Siaya Governor James Orengo, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago and Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli.

“You people have never been on any side that has won. Mko kwa Ruto and we are now sure that you're on the side that will lose,” Gachagua said.

Gen Z Protests and Education

Gachagua further claimed that the Luo community would not support President Ruto because of what he described as the government's handling of the Gen Z protests, as well as its record on education and other national issues.

“There is no way they will vote for someone who killed Gen Z. There is no way they will vote for someone that has destroyed the education system,” he said.

His remarks mark another escalation in his increasingly outspoken opposition to the Ruto administration, with criticism spanning taxation, healthcare, governance, security and the President’s emerging political alliances.

The claims made by Gachagua concerning KRA, SHA, alleged financial losses and political figures represent his assertions and would require independent verification from the relevant authorities and individuals named.