Gachagua Accuses Ruto of Neglecting Gusii Region Ahead of 2027 Elections

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has renewed his attacks on President William Ruto, accusing him of neglecting the Gusii region. Gachagua claimed that despite Ruto's repeated visits to the region with promises, he had failed to deliver on key infrastructure projects, including roads, water, electricity, and an airport. In a statement, Gachagua dismissed the President's development record in Kisii and Nyamira counties, saying residents had little to show for their support of the Kenya Kwanza government four years into its administration.

Gachagua accused Ruto of using an outdated campaign script, memorising village and road names to create an impression of familiarity with local issues. He claimed that the President's political strategy in the Gusii region was centred on substituting development projects with political slogans and financial handouts. Gachagua argued that his political brand and name could not replace tangible investments in the region, saying "RiggyG is not a road in Kisii or Nyamira. Rigathi is not a water project. Gachagua is not an airport."

The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader took aim at Ruto over the proposed cancer hospital, which he claimed had been announced several times but not delivered. Gachagua's remarks come amid growing political competition for influence in the Gusii region as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 elections. He warned Ruto against interfering with DCP aspirants, threatening political consequences if the President continued to undermine opposition candidates.

Gachagua invoked the controversy surrounding Ruto's alleged attempt to court the family of his late brother, former Nyeri Governor Nderitu Gachagua. He warned that Ruto risked another public embarrassment. Turning to the 2027 presidential contest, Gachagua declared that the political defeat he claimed to have delivered Ruto in Ol Kalou was only a rehearsal for a much bigger electoral battle.

Gachagua pledged to replicate the Ol Kalou political template across all 290 constituencies, saying his camp would mobilise voters to prevent electoral malpractice and the misuse of state institutions. He accused the government of using police officers and public institutions to intimidate political opponents, insisting that public servants were also dissatisfied with the administration over their salaries and access to medical care.

Gachagua claimed that these grievances would translate into votes against Ruto in the next election. He predicted Ruto's defeat and an embarrassing exit from State House, describing the 2027 election as an opportunity for Kenyans to punish the administration at the ballot. "You shall vacate State House in shame and humiliation. That is my promise to you and the country," Gachagua said.

The accusations and counter-accusations between Gachagua and Ruto reflect the growing tensions ahead of the 2027 General Election. The Gusii region is seen as a key battleground, with several leaders vying for influence. Gachagua's comments are likely to escalate the rivalry, with Ruto yet to respond to the allegations. The 2027 election is shaping up to be a highly contested and intense contest.

Key points

• Gachagua accuses Ruto of neglecting the Gusii region and relying on political rhetoric and handouts.
• Gachagua warns Ruto against interfering with DCP aspirants, threatening political consequences.
• Gachagua predicts Ruto's defeat and an embarrassing exit from State House in the 2027 election.