Gachagua Takes Aim at Ruto Over Charlene’s Wedding Spending as Kenyans Face Rising Hospital Bills

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has criticised President William Ruto over what he described as excessive spending during a family wedding, contrasting the alleged expenditure with the financial struggles facing ordinary Kenyans.

Speaking during his latest political remarks, Gachagua questioned the President’s priorities, claiming that Ruto wore an outfit worth KSh100 million when attending his daughter Charlene’s wedding, while the wedding itself allegedly cost KSh500 million.

Gachagua argued that such extravagant spending was difficult to reconcile with the challenges many Kenyan families face when seeking medical treatment in hospitals.

He pointed to the rising cost of healthcare, saying ordinary citizens continue to struggle with hospital bills, medical expenses and the financial burden of accessing essential services.

His remarks have added another dimension to the growing political exchanges between the former Deputy President and his former boss. The two leaders have increasingly differed over the direction of the country, with Gachagua frequently questioning the government’s economic priorities and policies.

The comments are also likely to generate debate among Kenyans, particularly at a time when healthcare affordability remains a major concern for households.

While Gachagua’s figures concerning the outfit and wedding expenditure were presented as allegations, they have drawn attention to the wider question of public leadership, personal wealth and the economic difficulties experienced by ordinary citizens.

The latest remarks have sparked fresh political discussion, with Kenyans likely to debate whether leaders are sufficiently sensitive to the financial pressures facing the population.

The controversy comes as the opposition continues using the cost of living and access to affordable healthcare to challenge the government’s record.

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