DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua recieved by Nyandarua Senator John Methu when he arrived at St Paul's Catholic Church Murungaru, Kinangop on August 2, 2026. [Courtesy]
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has intensified his criticism of President William Ruto's proposed Vision 2060 development framework.
Gachague argues that Kenyans are more concerned about the high cost of living, struggling farmers, insecurity and unemployment than a long-term development agenda stretching more than three decades into the future.
Speaking during a church service and public address in Ol Kalou, Nyandarua County, on Sunday, Gachagua said the government should focus on resolving today's economic and governance challenges before asking Kenyans to embrace a new national vision.
"Farmers in Mwea and Ahero do not want to hear about Vision 2060. They want the government to stop importing rice so that locally produced rice can be bought here in Kenya. They need that money now to educate their children," Gachagua said.
He argued that rice farmers were facing declining earnings because of imports and required immediate government intervention to protect local production.
The former Deputy President also raised concerns about maize farmers in Bomet, Olenguruone and other producing regions, alleging that some had suffered crop losses after planting crops using poor-quality fertilizer.
He claimed losses in certain areas had reached up to 70 percent and challenged the government to explain the support available to affected farmers.