Eldoret Human Rights Activist Ngetich Criticises Gachagua Over Sustained Attacks on President Ruto

 Eldoret-based human rights activist Kipkorir Ngetich has strongly criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over what he described as relentless attacks against President William Ruto, accusing him of engaging in intimidation, ethnic-based politics, and personal vendettas aimed at destabilising the government.

In a lengthy statement released on Wednesday, Ngetich said Gachagua’s recent political remarks and public rallies demonstrate a leader who is yet to recover from the shock of his impeachment and is now, in his view, driven by anger and resentment rather than a constructive national agenda.

“Mr Gachagua has turned politics into a platform of threats, propaganda, and incitement. Kenya deserves sober leadership, not intimidation and bitterness,” Ngetich said.

The activist argued that President Ruto should not be subjected to personal attacks and comparisons meant to demean his office, adding that leadership disagreements should be expressed through policy alternatives and democratic engagement rather than insults and threats.

Call for Accountability Over US Trip

Ngetich further challenged the former deputy president to explain the outcome of his recent two-month visit to the United States, claiming that Gachagua should publicly disclose how much money was allegedly raised during the trip and who benefited from the funds.

“If he truly believes in accountability and transparency, then he should begin with himself. His supporters deserve to know what was collected, from whom, and for what purpose,” he said.

Accusations of Tribal Politics

The Eldoret activist accused Gachagua of promoting tribalism and ethnic mobilisation, which he said threatens national cohesion. According to Ngetich, Kenya has suffered in the past due to leaders who exploit ethnic divisions for political gain, and such tendencies must be rejected decisively.

“He has consistently positioned himself as an ethnic kingpin, a dangerous path that Kenya must never return to. Tribal supremacy politics have no place in a modern democratic state,” Ngetich stated.

He also expressed concern over what he termed as the politicisation of the church, alleging that some religious leaders had been compromised to advance ethnic-based political narratives.

“Religious leaders should be preaching unity, peace, and reconciliation. Turning pulpits into instruments of hate and tribal mobilisation is morally wrong and dangerous for the country,” he added.

Defence of President Ruto’s Record

Ngetich defended President Ruto’s administration, saying the government has prioritised development projects across all regions without discrimination or marginalisation. He cited infrastructure development, social programs, and the formation of a broad-based government as evidence of inclusive leadership.

According to the activist, President Ruto has broken long-standing political dominance rooted in ethnicity by building alliances across communities and focusing on national rather than regional interests.

“The President has demonstrated that leadership is about service to the people and the nation, not narrow political ambitions. That is why some individuals feel threatened,” he said.

Opposition Lacks Direction, Says Activist

Ngetich accused sections of the opposition of lacking a clear vision and resorting to chaos, ethnic rhetoric, and misinformation as a strategy to regain political relevance. He claimed that many Kenyans are increasingly appreciating the government’s development agenda and are less receptive to divisive politics.

He further alleged that attempts to destabilise the broad-based government through protests and political agitation would fail, insisting that the country remains stable and democratic.

“Kenya is not a failed state. It is a sovereign, peaceful, and democratic nation. No one will be allowed to incite citizens for selfish political interests,” he said.

Background to the Political Tension

Ngetich’s remarks come in the wake of sharp criticism by Gachagua against President Ruto’s administration. The former deputy president has accused the government of mismanaging key sectors, particularly education and healthcare.

Gachagua has been vocal against the replacement of the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) with the Social Health Authority (SHA), arguing that the new system disadvantages ordinary Kenyans. He has also faulted the government over challenges in the education sector, including funding and policy implementation.

Additionally, Gachagua has questioned President Ruto’s seriousness in combating alcohol and drug abuse, claiming that initiatives in this area were sabotaged during his tenure as deputy president. He has also dismissed President Ruto’s vision of transforming Kenya into a “Singapore-like economy,” accusing him of making promises he cannot fulfil and misleading the public.

Call for Unity and Responsible Politics

In his statement, Ngetich urged political leaders to exercise restraint and responsibility, warning that inflammatory language could undermine peace and stability.

“Kenyans must reject leaders who thrive on intimidation, hatred, and ethnic supremacy. Our future lies in unity, accountability, and issue-based politics,” he said.

He called on citizens to remain vigilant and to support leaders who promote national cohesion, development, and democratic values, noting that Kenya’s progress depends on rejecting divisive political narratives.