Rigathi Gachagua Accuses William Ruto of Neglecting Kalenjin Region in Development Agenda

By : Mweru Mbugua 

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has criticised President William Ruto, accusing him of sidelining the Kalenjin community in national development projects

Speaking during an interview with Kalenjin journalists on Friday evening, Gachagua claimed that the President has shifted focus to other regions as he seeks to consolidate support ahead of the 2027 General Election

Gachagua alleged that despite significant electoral backing from the Mt. Kenya and Kalenjin regions in 2022, the President has concentrated development efforts in Nyanza while neglecting areas such as Kericho and Bomet

“The President was elected by votes from Mt. Kenya and the Kalenjin community. I asked him why it seems we have forgotten the Kalenjins who stood by him for five years. He has taken development projects to Nyanza and rarely visits Kericho or Bomet to launch projects,” Gachagua said

The leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) argued that the Kalenjin community currently lacks strong political advocacy, claiming that elected leaders from the region have remained silent

“The Kalenjins have no defender. MPs are quiet, senators are quiet who will speak for them?” he posed

At the same time, Gachagua sought to reassure the community that his political differences with President Ruto would not translate into hostility toward the Kalenjin people. He dismissed fears that a future government led by his opposition outfit would sideline them

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“There is no one who will discriminate against the Kalenjins. They have not wronged anyone. Our issue is with one individual, whom we will remove from power when the time comes. The Kalenjin people are hardworking and have contributed immensely to this country,” he said

Gachagua also announced plans to tour parts of the Rift Valley region next week as he travels to Kisii for political engagements