Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has launched a fresh attack on President William Ruto, questioning both his development record in Bomet and the sincerity of an emotional moment during the President’s visit to the county.
Gachagua argued that Ruto’s tears after meeting an emotional young girl did little to address the hardships facing residents, while accusing the government of failing to deliver on promises made to the region.
Highlights
- Gachagua criticised Ruto’s development record in Bomet.
- He questioned the President’s emotional reaction to a crying young girl.
- Gachagua claimed the government had failed to deliver new national projects in the county.
- He criticised the implementation of Economic Charters involving Bomet and Kericho.
- He also acknowledged that residents received financial handouts during Ruto’s visit.
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Gachagua Takes Aim at Ruto’s Bomet Tour
Rigathi Gachagua has criticised President William Ruto following his visit to Bomet and Kericho, accusing the Head of State of failing to deliver meaningful development to residents who supported him at the ballot.
In remarks shared on social media, Gachagua claimed the President’s visit had highlighted what he described as dissatisfaction among residents over unmet government promises.
He further argued that Ruto had little to showcase in terms of new national government projects during the tour.
Gachagua Questions Ruto’s Emotional Moment
The former Deputy President also turned his attention to a widely shared moment during Ruto’s Bomet visit.
The President became emotional after encountering a young girl who was crying while presenting a poem. Ruto was seen wiping his own tears and those of the girl as members of the crowd reacted to the moment.
Gachagua questioned the sincerity of Ruto’s reaction, arguing that the circumstances affecting the girl were connected to the economic challenges facing her family.
He suggested that instead of displaying emotion, the President should focus on addressing the conditions that he believes have contributed to the struggles of ordinary Kenyans.
Gachagua’s comments were political criticism and do not independently establish that the government’s policies caused the girl’s circumstances.
Claims Over Development Projects
Gachagua also alleged that Ruto relied on county government projects during his tour to demonstrate development in Bomet.
He specifically pointed to facilities associated with the county government, arguing that they should not be presented as achievements of the national administration.
His remarks come as development projects and government performance continue to feature prominently in Kenya’s political debate ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Economic Charters Also in the Spotlight
The former Deputy President further questioned the progress of Economic Charters signed between the national government and counties, including Bomet and neighbouring Kericho.
Gachagua claimed the agreements had not translated into sufficient action and suggested there was limited time left for their implementation before the end of Ruto’s current term.
His remarks add to the growing political contest over the government’s record as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 polls.
Handouts During Ruto’s Visit
Despite his broader criticism, Gachagua acknowledged that residents in Bomet and Kericho received what he described as millions of shillings in handouts during Ruto’s visit.
The comments come against the backdrop of increasing political activity as parties and opposition figures debate possible alliances and presidential options ahead of the next General Election.
