Former Deputy President and DCP party leader Rigathi Gachagua has criticised the Kenya Kwanza administration’s record on housing, education and agriculture, while outlining what he says his government would do if elected in 2027.
Speaking on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, during his much-anticipated “Ruto at Four” address, Gachagua said the government’s affordable housing programme should not be compulsory for Kenyans.
He argued that citizens should have the freedom to decide whether they want to participate in the programme, saying, “The affordable housing scheme should be made optional to Kenyans to allow them to participate at their own free will.”
Gachagua also raised concerns over what he described as declining government funding for primary and secondary schools, claiming the reduction in capitation has placed schools under financial strain.
According to the former deputy president, the capitation rate introduced in 2017 stood at Sh22,000 per student but has since fallen to Sh9,000.
“The gains made by the previous administration under free primary and secondary school education have been eroded to dust,” Gachagua said.
He argued that the funding gap has affected the ability of schools to meet their financial obligations and provide quality education.
Gachagua further highlighted his record in the agricultural sector during his tenure as deputy president, particularly reforms targeting farmers and cash-crop producers.
He said his administration played a role in increasing returns for tea, coffee, dairy, and other agricultural products.
“Through my efforts we negotiated an Sh8 billion debt waiver for coffee farmers that was suspended as soon as I left office,” he claimed.
The DCP leader promised to revive and expand such interventions if his political camp takes power after the 2027 general election.
“More can and more will be done once we form government on August 10th next year (2027),” Gachagua said.
His remarks come as political parties and leaders intensify preparations and policy messaging ahead of the 2027 presidential contest.
