‘Kenyans are crying’: Gachagua criticises Ruto’s claims on country's economic progress
By Lucy Mumbi |
Gachagua highlighted widespread dissatisfaction among citizens, including public servants facing high deductions from their salaries.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has dismissed claims of economic growth made by President William Ruto during his State of the Nation address, asserting that the real state of the economy can only be judged by the experiences of ordinary Kenyans.
Speaking in an interview with NTV on Sunday, Gachagua acknowledged some achievements by the Kenya Kwanza administration but maintained that the general population remains dissatisfied with the economic situation.
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He credited the administration for certain initiatives, such as the fertiliser subsidy programme, which he described as a "success."
Gachagua recounted his involvement in streamlining the programme, saying he helped prevent financial wastage by proposing the registration of farmers through national government administration officers instead of incurring a Sh1.8 billion expense to distribute fertiliser.
“Within two, three weeks, we had registered five million farmers. That programme is very, very successful,” he said.
He also acknowledged achievements in teacher recruitment and efforts to stabilise the Kenyan shilling but criticised claims of broader economic improvement.
"The President talked about less inflation and growth. But from where I sit, for you to know whether the economy is successful, you don’t need figures—just ask wananchi. Kenyans are crying.”
Drawing from his experience in previous administrations, Gachagua argued that tangible economic progress is felt by citizens, not just reported in statistics.
He pointed to the tenure of former President Mwai Kibaki as an example of effective economic management.
"During Kibaki’s time, the economy improved significantly, and people felt it. Forget about figures and percentages. Stop and ask ordinary people how they are doing," he said.
Gachagua highlighted widespread dissatisfaction among citizens, including public servants facing high deductions from their salaries.
“Overtaxation is a major issue. I spoke with a police officer who showed me his pay slip. The deductions are not matching the services they receive. People with pay slips are very unhappy," the ex-DP said.
He stressed that the ultimate measure of economic progress is the quality of life experienced by Kenyans.
“Anytime there is improvement in the economy, people will feel it. There will be better business, improved cash flow, and employment opportunities. Right now, Kenyans are crying," Gachagua said.
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