Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has reportedly taken a swipe at President William Ruto, accusing him of lacking the intellectual capacity and leadership vision to transform Kenya into a global economic model like Singapore.
In a viral video circulating on social media, Gachagua is heard criticizing the President’s educational background and leadership approach, claiming that Ruto’s priorities are misplaced and his methods oppressive.
“Ruto hana akili ya kufanya ikuwe kama Singapore, hata masomo yake ni ya matawi na wanyama pori. Kitu anajua ni wizi, uuwaji na kupiga watu risasi mguu,” Gachagua allegedly said.
(Translation: “Ruto doesn’t have the vision to make Kenya like Singapore. His education is about trees and wildlife. The only things he knows are corruption, killing, and shooting people in the leg.”)
The comments have triggered a wave of mixed reactions online, with Kenyans expressing shock at the escalating war of words between the country’s top leaders. Supporters of the President dismissed Gachagua’s claims as baseless and disrespectful, while others argued that his remarks reflect growing divisions within the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition.
Political observers note that the tension between Ruto and Gachagua has been simmering for months, fueled by differences over governance style, succession politics, and economic priorities.
Gachagua’s remarks come just days after President Ruto stated that he was confident of winning re-election in 2027, insisting that Kenyans have witnessed his commitment to delivering on campaign promises.
As the political rivalry intensifies, Kenyans are closely watching how the relationship between the President and his deputy unfolds in the coming months — especially as both continue to make bold and controversial public statements.
