Gachagua tells Ruto to leave Uhuru alone, accuses president of creating his own political problems

Rigathi Gachagua, leader of the Democracy for Citizens’ Party (DCP), urged President William Ruto to cease criticizing retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, stating that Ruto is generating the political issues his government faces. Gachagua made these remarks during a church service in Gatundu South on Sunday, August 16, 2026, in response to Ruto's comments in Eldoret ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Although Ruto did not directly mention Uhuru in his remarks, he referred to an unnamed political "sponsor" accused of supporting "political puppets" against him. Gachagua interpreted this as a reference to Uhuru and challenged Ruto to stop diverting attention to his predecessor. Gachagua alleged that Ruto is attempting to engage in a debate with Uhuru Kenyatta when the sole focus should be on the performance of Ruto's administration.

During a separate address to supporters in Eldoret, Ruto accused an unnamed former political ally of failing to deliver during their tenure and subsequently backing opponents who aim to challenge Ruto's administration in 2027. Ruto alleged that this individual could not fulfill promises related to affordable housing, universal healthcare, and education funding for children.

He then suggested that this individual is now sponsoring political opponents against Ruto. Ruto challenged his political opponents to lay out their records, policies, and manifestos for voters rather than engaging in attacks. Gachagua countered that the debate should remain centered on Ruto's administration's performance and the issues he has raised in his criticism of the government.

The DCP leader emphasized that Uhuru should not be blamed for the challenges confronting Ruto's government. These remarks further escalate the political exchange between Gachagua and Ruto as they vie for positions ahead of the 2027 General Election. The ongoing criticism highlights the strained political relationship between Ruto and Uhuru, who served as deputy presidents for two terms before falling out before the 2022 election.