Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has lambasted President William Ruto’s affordable housing agenda, terming it a case of misplaced priorities. Speaking during a church service at PCEA Emmanuel Matanya, Waguthiru Parish in Laikipia County, Gachagua expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s focus, arguing that it overlooked critical campaign promises.
Gachagua revealed that he had advised President Ruto to prioritize infrastructure development, electricity connections, water access, and education, which he believes align more closely with the needs of Kenyans. “Nilikuwa naambia rais, si tutimize ile ahadi tulipatania wananchi…tuwajengee barabara, tuwaunganishie stima, tuwawekee maji na tuangalie maneno ya elimu,” Gachagua told the congregation. However, he claimed the president dismissed his counsel in favor of advancing the affordable housing program.
Criticizing the initiative, Gachagua questioned its relevance to ordinary Kenyans, especially those in rural areas. He argued that resources allocated to the housing agenda would be better spent addressing pressing issues such as inadequate infrastructure and water shortages. “Hapa kuna mtu hana nyumba yake? Mnataka maji ama manyumba? Mnataka barabara ama manyumba?” he asked the congregation rhetorically, suggesting that most Kenyans are capable of building their homes but are hindered by more basic challenges.
In a more controversial turn, Gachagua accused President Ruto of reviving the outlawed Mungiki sect, claiming it was being used to destabilize Central Kenya. “Rais amefufua kundi haramu ndiyo atuhangaishe,” he alleged, warning that such actions could alienate the region further from the government. He predicted that such moves would erode what little support the administration still enjoys in Central Kenya.
Since his removal from office, Gachagua has emerged as a vocal critic of the Kenya Kwanza government. His remarks come at a time when discontent over unmet campaign promises is growing across the country. In a move that has sparked speculation, the former deputy president hinted at a significant political announcement in the coming weeks. “I am listening to the people, and I will make a pronouncement in a fortnight,” he declared, leaving room for speculation about his next political move.
Gachagua’s comments are likely to fuel further debate over the government’s priorities, as questions persist about its commitment to addressing the immediate needs of Kenyans. His accusations regarding the Mungiki sect also add a new layer of complexity to an already tense political landscape.