Ruku dismisses Gachagua's Embu tour as 'empty populism'

Speaking in Nairobi during the 40th anniversary celebrations of the Catholic Diocese of Embu Diaspora Mass, Ruku said Gachagua's engagements with residents dwelt largely on criticising government leaders rather than offering alternative policies or development proposals.

The Cabinet Secretary argued that Kenyans are increasingly demanding issue-based politics centred on economic transformation, service delivery and job creation, not personal attacks and divisive rhetoric.

According to Ruku, Gachagua failed to convince Embu residents to turn against the Kenya Kwanza administration because the government has continued to roll out development projects across the county, particularly in agriculture, infrastructure and public service.

He maintained that the ongoing projects have improved livelihoods and demonstrate President William Ruto's commitment to fulfilling his campaign promises.

"The development record of President William Ruto's administration speaks for itself and offers a strong foundation as he seeks a second term in the 2027 General Election," Ruku said.

In a direct rebuttal to Gachagua's recent remarks, Ruku also accused the former Deputy President of persistently disrespecting Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki, saying such conduct undermines the dignity of the country's second-highest office.

He urged Gachagua to accord Kindiki the respect befitting his position, describing him as the Kenya Kwanza administration's political leader in the Mt. Kenya region.

Ruku further dismissed Gachagua's recent calls for Kenyans to respect the Deputy President as contradictory, arguing that they were inconsistent with his earlier public remarks directed at Kindiki.

"It is ironic to call for respect for the Deputy President after previously demeaning him through derogatory remarks. Politics should be anchored on policies, development and service delivery, not personal attacks and divisive campaigns," Ruku stated.

The Cabinet Secretary expressed confidence that President Ruto will secure re-election in 2027, insisting that the government's development agenda will outweigh opposition criticism at the ballot.

Former Mbeere North MP Muriuki Njagagua backed Ruku's position, urging Embu residents not to be swayed by what he termed Gachagua's political propaganda.

Njagagua said the former Deputy President has yet to offer practical solutions to the country's economic and social challenges, arguing that his campaign has largely revolved around criticising government leaders.

He called on residents to remain focused on development and rally behind leaders championing projects that improve livelihoods, saying Embu stands to benefit more through continued collaboration with the national government.