Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has issued sharp criticism against President William Ruto's government, accusing it of failing to address the pressing needs of Kenyans.

Speaking at former Senator Cleophas Malala's residence before attending the Malala Cup finals, Gachagua condemned recent police actions, including the use of teargas, attributing it to what he termed as desperation and waning public support.

“A police officer threw teargas at us, but we continued with the meeting. The wananchi [ordinary citizens] stood their ground and ensured the event proceeded. Desperate people resort to desperate measures, and this regime has nothing to offer Kenyans,” Gachagua said.

The former Deputy President recounted an unsettling incident on Saturday during a thanksgiving ceremony for Shamata Ward MCA Gitau Njamba in Nyandarua.

A teargas canister exploded just meters away from where he was seated alongside other leaders. The disruption escalated into chaos, leaving several attendees injured as the crowd overpowered the police in anger.

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Gachagua pointed to key issues such as rising insecurity, the high cost of living, and poor economic policies, criticizing the government for its inability to address these challenges. He accused the administration of attempting to stifle political meetings instead of offering solutions.

“There are countless questions this government cannot answer. Instead, they resort to desperate tactics to disrupt our gatherings,” he added.

The former Deputy President also hinted at forming new political alliances before the 2027 elections. He revealed ongoing discussions with various leaders, including Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa, to create what he described as "responsible leadership."

“Leaders have a duty to unite their people. I am engaging with Eugene and other like-minded individuals to create a framework for responsible governance. This conversation will take shape in the coming year,” Gachagua stated.

DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa supported Gachagua’s sentiments, raising concerns over increasing reports of abductions targeting critics of the government on social media.

Cleophas Malala, who hosted the event, declared his position in the opposition, accusing Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula of betraying their supporters by siding with the government.