Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has criticized President William Ruto, accusing him of neglecting the voices of the people.

Gachagua alleged that Ruto's administration has fostered division and resorted to insults, undermining the dignity of the presidency.

“Mr. President, the presidency is a symbol of unity and respect. When you resort to insults and belittling Kenyans, you degrade that office,” Gachagua remarked during the funeral of Mzee William Nderitu Ngatia, father of Laikipia Senator John Kinyua.

The former DP claimed he had previously warned Ruto against making unpopular decisions, including those affecting the Mount Kenya region and workers’ payslips, but his advice was ignored. “I told you not to interfere with the mountain, but you did, and now you see the consequences. I also cautioned against tampering with salaries, yet you went ahead,” he said.

The event saw a division between leaders allied to Ruto and those supporting Gachagua, with some attendees openly protesting the latter’s removal from office. Nyahururu Catholic Bishop, who presided over the service, urged politicians to remain truthful and prioritize the needs of the people.

Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri led pro-Ruto MPs in reaffirming their support for the Kenya Kwanza government, pledging to fulfill pre-election promises. However, leaders loyal to Gachagua labeled them as betrayers who have abandoned the interests of Kenyans.

Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga criticized the government for allegedly planning to remove senior officials from Mount Kenya, including Chief Justice Martha Koome.

He called on residents to reject leaders who have failed to bring meaningful development under the Kenya Kwanza administration.