Gachagua to Ruto: Wait Till August 10, 2027, If You Think Media Is Your Enemy

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused President William Ruto's administration of targeting journalists and media organisations, warning that the government would ultimately be judged by Kenyans at the ballot.

Speaking during a press conference on Tuesday, June 30, Gachagua urged the government to respect press freedom and allow journalists to carry out their work without intimidation.

"Leave the media houses and journalists alone," he said. "The problem is not the media; it is fake promises, lies, failing economy and systems, corruption, poor service delivery, abductions, extrajudicial killings and abuse of the rule of law."

He argued that the role of the media is to report on matters of public interest and hold leaders accountable, not to shield those in power from criticism.

Gachagua then addressed President Ruto directly, saying the government should not view journalists as political opponents.

"President William Ruto, if you think the media is your enemy, you are mistaken. Wait for August 10, 2027," he said.

The former deputy president has previously referred to that date while discussing the next General Election and his expectation that voters will decide the country's political direction.

During the briefing, Gachagua also alleged that there were plans to undermine some media organisations ahead of the election period.

"We are aware of plans to shut down some media houses, financially cripple others through the government advertising agency, slow down and eventually shut down the internet on August 10, 2027," he claimed.

He did not provide evidence to support the allegations, and the government had not responded to the claims by the time of publication.

Gachagua further alleged that some journalists had faced intimidation because of their reporting and called on media practitioners to remain united in defending press freedom.

He said independent journalism remains essential in ensuring transparency and accountability in public affairs.

The remarks come amid ongoing debate over media freedom following recent incidents involving journalists and media organisations in Kenya and elsewhere in the region.

Media rights groups have continued to call for the protection of journalists and for investigations into reported cases of intimidation and attacks against members of the press.

Gachagua maintained that criticism directed at the government should not be interpreted as hostility, arguing that scrutiny of public institutions is part of democratic governance.