Senate Speaker Amason Kingi has launched a scathing attack on former President Uhuru Kenyatta and ousted Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing them of undermining the Kenya Kwanza administration by inciting the youth against the government.
Speaking at a women’s fundraising event in Makindu Township, Makueni County on Friday, May 16, 2025, Kingi questioned Uhuru’s sincerity following his recent call for youth to take a more active role in governance. He dismissed the former president’s remarks as hypocritical, citing his ten-year tenure during which, according to Kingi, little was done to empower young people or women.
“You were president for 10 years. You did nothing to empower youth and women. Please give us a break. Allow the current president to roll out his good plans to empower the youth. Incitement will not take us anywhere,” Kingi remarked.
Uhuru has recently been vocal about youth engagement, calling on young people in Kenya and across Africa to take leadership roles and defend their rights. His remarks, including those made at Makerere University in Uganda, have been interpreted by allies of President William Ruto as subtle encouragement for youth to challenge the current administration, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Kingi also criticised Gachagua, accusing him of perpetuating tribal rhetoric and political division during his time in office. He alleged that Gachagua failed to support President Ruto’s bipartisan approach to governance, contributing to his political downfall.
Labeling Gachagua as “a dangerous bully,” Kingi praised Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse for leading the successful impeachment motion against the former deputy president. “Mwengi Mutuse boldly held the raging bull by the horns, put it down, and enabled its slaughter,” Kingi said.
The event, which forms part of Kenya Kwanza’s empowerment outreach in the Ukambani region, is seen as a strategic move to counter the influence of opposition leader Kalonzo Musyoka and consolidate support in his traditional political stronghold.
Kingi’s remarks signal increasing political tensions as Kenya heads into the pre-election period, with rival factions seeking to sway youth and regional support in their favor.
