Aasai

Former Deputy President and leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party, Rigathi Gachagua, has launched a scathing attack on the Kenya Kwanza administration, accusing it of using false “coup plot” claims to distract from its own failures in governance. Speaking during a Sunday service at the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Diocese in Nyahururu, Laikipia County, Gachagua fiercely denied any involvement in the violence and destruction that rocked parts of the country during the youth-led protests of June 25.

Gachagua, who once served as President William Ruto’s principal assistant, is increasingly emerging as a fierce critic of the current administration. Addressing the congregation, he made it clear that the government must shoulder the blame for the chaos that unfolded, especially in the Mt Kenya region, which saw significant youth mobilization.

“I had no role in the destruction. It is the government that bears full responsibility for what happened,” Gachagua stated. “These accusations are part of a calculated scheme to paint me and other leaders in bad light, especially in our own backyard,” he added, in apparent reference to political efforts to diminish his influence in the vote-rich region.

The sharp response comes days after President Ruto claimed that the recent protests bore the hallmarks of an attempted coup—an assertion that sent shockwaves across the country. Ruto alleged that the demonstrations, led largely by Gen Z activists through social media, were not merely civil unrest but part of a deeper, more sinister political plan. However, Gachagua strongly refuted the claim, dismissing it as political fiction designed to avoid addressing legitimate public grievances.

“There was no coup. What we saw was the youth standing up against oppression and bad governance,” Gachagua said. “The so-called coup plot is a convenient excuse by the government to divert attention from the real issues affecting the youth and citizens at large.”

He described the protesters as “patriots” who are tired of broken promises, corruption, and rising economic hardships. According to Gachagua, the youth are simply demanding justice, accountability, and a government that listens. He criticized the government’s response, saying that instead of engaging in honest dialogue with the demonstrators, it had resorted to fear-mongering and repression.

In a bold show of political intent, Gachagua declared that he is working with a group of like-minded leaders across the country to build a national movement. The movement, he said, aims to “liberate Kenya” from a leadership he claims is entrenched in corruption, incompetence, and detachment from the people’s needs.

Gachagua further used the occasion to draw spiritual inspiration. On his social media platforms, he quoted Ezra 10:4: “Rise up; this matter is in your hands. We will support you, so take courage and do it.” The verse, he said, symbolizes the need for bold action and unity in confronting national problems.

“It’s another blessed Sunday to thank the Lord for His grace and mercy on our nation,” he posted. “Kenya must be liberated, and those faithful to God’s will shall remain steadfast.”

These remarks not only underscore Gachagua’s growing disillusionment with President Ruto’s leadership but also highlight a deeper political realignment taking shape in Kenya. Once close allies, Gachagua and Ruto now appear to be on divergent paths, with the Mt Kenya region emerging as a key battleground ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Analysts suggest that the growing rift could signal a major split within the Kenya Kwanza coalition. Gachagua, seen by many as the region’s most prominent political figure, is steadily positioning himself as the face of resistance within the ruling camp—one that resonates with the frustrations of a youthful and restless population.

As political temperatures rise and calls for accountability intensify, Kenya appears poised for a new wave of political realignments, with Gachagua at the heart of what could be a formidable challenge to the status quo.