Gachagua, Kalonzo slam Kilifi nuclear plan, say tourism at risk

Former Deputy President and Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua during a political rally at Mulu Mutisya grounds in Machakos town on May 30, 2025. [John Muia, Standard]

Opposition leaders have threatened legal action to halt the proposed Sh500 billion nuclear power project at Uyombo village in Matsangoni ward, Kilifi County, citing environmental and economic risks.

The leaders argued that the plant, being developed by the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (Nupea), would devastate the tourism industry along Kenya’s Coast and endanger local communities.

Speaking during a tour of the coastal region, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua warned that having a nuclear facility in a tourism hotspot, such as Kilifi would drive away international visitors. “Kilifi and Malindi thrive on tourism. A nuclear plant here would ruin that industry,” he said.

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka announced that the opposition will move to court through advocate Ndegwa Njiiri to challenge the project.

Former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, now Deputy Party Leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party, also expressed concern over the planned plant and a separate government housing project allegedly targeting school land in Malindi.

Nyandarua Senator John Methu suggested that President Ruto relocate the plant to Uasin Gishu County if he believes it to be a safe venture and instead prioritise safer developments for Kilifi residents. The opposition leaders also took the opportunity to escalate their criticism of President William Ruto’s economic policies, accusing him of worsening the country’s financial situation.

Gachagua and Kalonzo said the cost of living had skyrocketed under Ruto’s administration, with many Kenyans now struggling to make ends meet. Gachagua alleged that Ruto misled the public with promises of economic relief. “This guy deceived us that he would put money in our pockets. Instead, he has stolen that money and is handing it out as bribes to vulnerable people,” he said.

Kalonzo called on Kenyans to turn out in large numbers on June 25 to honour Gen Z protesters allegedly killed in Parliament last year. He referred to them as champions of economic justice and encouraged young people to register in preparation for the 2027 elections.

Former Defence Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa criticised the government’s repeated tax hikes and questioned the handling of the housing levy, which he claimed was being misused without public consent.

The leaders were accompanied by MPs, County Assembly Speakers and MCAs from Mt Kenya and Lower Eastern regions.