Former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has launched a scathing attack on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of lacking patriotism following his controversial remarks about the Africa Forward Summit.
In a strongly worded statement posted on his X account on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, Kuria criticized both the timing and tone of Gachagua’s comments, suggesting they demonstrate a leader who “does not care for this great nation.”
“The timing and flavour of Rigathi Gachagua’s comments on the Africa Forward Summit is further proof of a leader who does not care for this great nation,” Kuria wrote.
“We may have our local differences but for Kenya to host an event of this magnitude is something that all well-meaning Kenyans should be proud of.”
Kuria’s rebuke comes a day after Gachagua held a press conference on May 12, 2026, where he made explosive allegations about the use of public funds and directly confronted French President Emmanuel Macron’s presence at the summit.
Gachagua’s Explosive Claims
During the presser, the former Deputy President alleged that Ksh7 billion drawn from the fuel levy, funds meant for road maintenance, were irregularly paid to French contractors as compensation after President William Ruto’s administration cancelled a previous deal.
“To the President, in the presence of Emmanuel Macron from France, it is important we let you know why Kenyans made noise to you at the University of Nairobi, Taifa Hall,” Gachagua stated.
“It wasn’t because of disrespect or hatred; they had a message for you. That the taxpayers’ money has been used and wired to French firms to the tune of Kenya Shillings 7 billion, as their children are not in school and they have no food on the table.”
According to Gachagua, the government cancelled a Ksh159 billion contract initially awarded to French firms under the Jubilee administration, only to hand the project to Chinese contractor China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) at an inflated cost of Ksh200 billion, a Ksh41 billion increase.
The Africa Forward Summit has attracted significant international attention, with several African heads of state and global leaders in attendance. However, the event has been overshadowed by domestic concerns about government spending and the cost of living crisis affecting ordinary Kenyans.
