Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku arrives for a Special Programmes outreach event in Mavindini Ward, Makueni County, on May 13, 2026. / HANDOUT

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has hit back at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over his remarks targeting President William Ruto and French President Emmanuel Macron during the Africa Forward Summit.

Speaking during a Special Programmes outreach event in Mavindini Ward, Makueni County, Ruku termed Gachagua’s comments unfortunate and disrespectful to both Kenyan leadership and foreign dignitaries attending the high-level summit in Nairobi.

“The former Deputy President’s remarks are unfortunate and create the impression that he believes he is wiser than all the Heads of State and governments elected by their respective countries,” Ruku said.

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“He needs to learn some diplomacy on how to deal with foreign countries and international leaders.”

The Cabinet Secretary defended the Africa Forward Summit, saying the forum had brought together African and global leaders to deliberate on key issues affecting the continent, including trade, regional integration, peace, investment and economic transformation.

The summit, co-hosted by President Ruto and President Macron, attracted several Heads of State, senior government officials, business leaders and international development partners from across Africa and Europe.

According to Ruku, President Ruto’s engagements with fellow leaders are aimed at strengthening Kenya’s diplomatic standing and unlocking economic opportunities for the country.

He said the summit discussions were centred on helping African nations achieve economic independence and reduce overreliance on foreign debt and external financial support.

“African leaders are discussing long-term solutions that can strengthen local economies, promote trade among African countries, attract investment and create sustainable growth models,” he said.

Ruku argued that attacking such engagements undermines the dignity of the presidency and disregards the collective efforts being made by African leaders to shape the continent’s economic future.

He maintained that Kenya stands to benefit significantly from international partnerships through increased investments, market expansion and job creation for young people.

The CS further said President Ruto’s foreign engagements should not be reduced to political attacks, noting that bilateral relations play a major role in advancing development programmes and improving livelihoods.

“Criticising these engagements not only disrespects the President but also undermines the efforts of leaders working to transform Africa and strengthen cooperation among nations,” Ruku said.

The remarks come a day after Gachagua dismissed the Africa Forward Summit as a “sideshow”.

However, Ruku maintained that Kenya cannot afford divisive politics at a time when the government is pursuing development programmes and international partnerships aimed at transforming the economy.

He defended President Ruto’s foreign engagements, saying they remain critical in attracting investments, expanding export markets, creating employment opportunities for young people and strengthening bilateral cooperation.

“Our focus as government is to create opportunities for wananchi through economic growth, partnerships and investments that directly improve livelihoods,” he said.

Ruku also said the government remains committed to implementing its development agenda and would not be distracted by political statements meant to create division among Kenyans.

During the Makueni visit, the CS reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the completion of the Thwake Dam project, describing it as a transformative infrastructure programme expected to improve water access, support irrigation and enhance food security in the lower Eastern region.

He assured residents that the government remains committed to ensuring the successful completion of the multi-billion-shilling project, saying it will strengthen climate resilience and improve livelihoods in arid and semi-arid areas.