Multi-billion rice importation is “budgeted corruption”, Gacahagua claim

Former Deputy President and Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua las launched a scathing attack against President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration over the controversial multi-billion deal for rice importation into the country terming it as “budgeted corruption”.

While speaking in Mwea in Kirinyaga county yesterday accompanied by other opposition leaders, Gachagua castigated the move it is intended to undermine the substantial stocks of locally produced rice.

He pointed out that the government, through what he termed as “budgeted corruption,” has purchased large quantities of rice from outside Kenya, efforts that he claims are aimed at diluting the already substantial stock of locally available rice.

Gachagua emphasised that instead of prioritizing the development of local agriculture, the government is discouraging rice farmers in Kirinyaga County and across the country.

He has lamented that rather than creating an enabling environment where farmers can thrive through investments and supportive policies, the government is disorienting them, thereby pushing them further into poverty.

While the country faces numerous challenges, Gachagua has criticised the government for focusing on what he called “unnecessary things.”

Queries have been raised about how tycoons bagged a Sh15 billion rice import tender for the period ending October 31, 2025.

He accused President Ruto of spending public funds on campaign choppers, even as health matters remain non-functional.

He pointed out that university lecturers have yet to receive their dues, and other critical services are at a standstill, highlighting a leadership that is seemingly disconnected from the pressing needs of Kenyans.

On the division of regions being the president, Gachagua has reiterated that president Ruto is uniting his community while dividing other regions giving an example of the latest camaraderie between the president and KANU Chairman Gideon Moi.

Gachagua also addressed the issue of women in politics, expressing respect for women but warning that if they are used to sponsor criminal activities, they will be dealt with as such.

Furthermore, he did not shy away from criticising leaders from the Mt. Kenya region, accusing some of being used as pawns to divide the region instead of uniting it.

He called for genuine leadership that prioritises the interests of the people over regional or political divisions.