Ruto in Trouble as Gachagua Demands Answers Over the Deaths of These 2 People Following His Remarks

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has challenged President William Ruto’s message on youth leadership, asking whether young Kenyans who died during protests could have become leaders by 2032.

Gachagua responded after Ruto, addressing residents in Kisii County on November 10, urged older politicians to give emerging leaders room to grow. The President named several younger politicians and said he expected his generation, including himself, Gachagua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, to leave active politics in 2032.

In a statement posted on X, Gachagua addressed Ruto as “Mr Taxes” and questioned his record on protecting young people.

“Mr Taxes, I hear you are claiming that young leaders are being denied a chance to lead. Where is Rex Masai? Where is Kennedy Onyango? Where is Albert Ojwang? Are they still the leaders of 2032?” he asked.

Gachagua also named Erick Mutisia, Ibrahim Kamau and Boniface Kariuki, linking their cases to concerns about the treatment of young Kenyans.

He referred to deaths during the 2024 Gen Z protests and the 2025 Saba Saba demonstrations, claiming that more than 200 young people had been killed. The figure was included in his statement and has not been independently verified in the reports reviewed.

His response shifted the discussion about generational change towards police conduct, accountability and the protection of citizens during demonstrations. The deaths and circumstances surrounding those named have prompted public concern and calls for investigations.

The exchange is the latest episode in a public dispute between the two former political allies, who shared a presidential ticket in 2022 before their relationship deteriorated.

Ruto had not issued a direct response to Gachagua’s latest statement in the reports available. The disagreement adds to political debate ahead of the 2027 General Election and the country’s political future.

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