In a statement delivered on Saturday, Gachagua, who now leads the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP).
“Ruto, if you continue with goonism, violence, and the destruction of property, I, Rigathi Gachagua, will call on all Kenyans to suspend the payment of taxes until you come to your senses.”
The remarks come amid heightened political tensions in Kenya, particularly surrounding the recently signed 2026/2027 Finance Bill.
He has also raised concerns about potential state-orchestrated violence during planned protests, including the events around June 25.Gachagua’s latest intervention follows his earlier calls for citizens to avoid street demonstrations in favour of safer, constitutional approaches to expressing dissent.
Sources close to the former deputy president indicate the tax boycott threat is intended as an economic pressure tool rather than an invitation to chaos, though critics question its feasibility and legality.
Political analysts note that Gachagua’s shift from a key government ally in the 2022 election to a vocal critic reflects deepening rifts within Kenya’s ruling coalition.
His comments have drawn mixed reactions online, with some supporters praising his boldness in confronting alleged state excesses, while others have dismissed the statement as political grandstanding or an attempt to regain relevance.
Government responses have not yet been issued, but the administration has defended the Finance Bill as necessary for funding development projects and has dismissed claims of new burdensome taxes in certain sectors.
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