Kenya, June 30 ,2026 -Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused President William Ruto's administration of attempting to suppress media freedom, urging journalists and editors to resist intimidation and safeguard the country's democracy ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a press conference at his Wamunyoro home in Mathira Constituency, Nyeri County, on Tuesday, Gachagua alleged that the government had weakened key oversight institutions and was now targeting the media, which he described as the public's "last line of defence."
"You have captured all institutions. You have punctured the Opposition immediately after you got into power. Please leave the 55 million Kenyans with the media as their last line of defence," Gachagua said in a direct appeal to President Ruto.
He urged media houses, journalists and editors to remain united and uphold professional ethics despite what he termed growing pressure from the State.
"I call on all media houses, the journalists and the editors, to stand in solidarity with one another. Do not be cowed. Do not be threatened or intimidated. Stand firm and speak the truth for the people of Kenya," he said.
The former Deputy President described the media as a critical pillar in protecting democratic governance, particularly as the country prepares for the next General Election.
"Ahead of the 2027 General Elections, as you observe your code of ethics to report elections, be forthright and do not allow the State to capture or subvert the will of the people," he said.
Gachagua also appealed to the Kenya Editors Guild to defend editorial independence and protect journalists from alleged harassment.