Aasai

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has taken a swipe at President William Ruto over his recent comments about academic credentials. During a visit to Garissa County in early February, Ruto dismissed his critics, arguing that they lacked the academic qualifications to question his leadership.

 Speaking to Musyi FM on Wednesday, Gachagua hit back, questioning the impact of Ruto’s PhD on the countrys governance. He pointed out that key sectors such as healthcare, university education, and the cost of living had worsened under Ruto’s leadership, despite his academic credentials. "Hata kama hatuna PhD, ile masomo kidogo tukonayo ni ya maana," Gachagua remarked, accusing Ruto of looking down on Kenyans.

 Gachagua’s remarks were in response to Ruto’s statements in Garissa, where the president criticized those opposing the government’s livestock vaccination campaign, calling them ignorant. Ruto had argued that his academic background made him more knowledgeable about national issues than his critics.

Since his fallout with Ruto, Gachagua has remained vocal against the Kenya Kwanza administration, frequently highlighting what he perceives as its failures. His latest attack adds to the growing political tension between the former allies as the 2027 election cycle approaches.