Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua ushered in 2026 not with a traditional olive branch, but with a scathing indictment of the government he once helped form, shattering the customary optimism of the New Year.

While goodwill messages usually focus on hope and renewal, Gachagua’s statement serves as a stark reminder of the deep political fissures that continue to define Kenya’s landscape. By labeling President William Ruto’s administration a "trustless regime," the former second-in-command is clearly signaling that the political ceasefires of the holiday season are over.

A Legacy of Pain

In a statement released on Wednesday, December 31, Gachagua acknowledged the resilience of the Kenyan people but emphasized that their endurance has been tested to the breaking point. He argued that the administration has inflicted "a lot of pain" on hard-working citizens—a sentiment that resonates in households still grappling with the high cost of living.

The former Deputy President’s rhetoric strikes at the heart of the current economic reality. For the average Kenyan, the macro-economic indicators touted by the state often feel disconnected from the price of unga or fuel at the pump. Gachagua noted:

• The administration has failed to reward the resilience of the workforce.
• The government has operated without the trust of the electorate.
• The "bad things" done in 2025 cannot be swept under the rug.

The Ghost of the Gen Z Protests

Perhaps the most volatile element of Gachagua's address was his direct reference to the "killing of Gen Zs." This touches on the raw nerve of the 2024/2025 protests, where youth-led demonstrations against tax hikes were met with force. By keeping this memory alive, Gachagua is attempting to align himself with the demographic that has proven to be the most potent political force in recent history.

Furthermore, his accusation regarding the "stealing of national strategic assets" points to the controversial privatization deals that have plagued the headlines. Whether referring to the management of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) or energy sector deals, the allegation suggests a government selling off the family silver for short-term gain.

"The country will not forget," Gachagua warned, setting a confrontational tone for the year ahead. As 2026 begins, it is clear that for the opposition—and the estranged former DP—the strategy will be to ensure the electorate remembers every grievance.