President William Ruto and his former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have come under renewed criticism from religious leaders following an escalation of their political confrontation ahead of the 2027 General Election.

According to The Standard, in its November 12 report, religious leaders condemned the bitter exchanges between the two politicians, warning that inflammatory political statements risk undermining national cohesion and threatening peace as the country approaches another election.

The concerns come amid increasingly personal attacks between Ruto and Gachagua, who were political allies during the 2022 presidential election before their relationship collapsed.

Daily Nation, in its November 10 coverage, reported that Ruto accused Gachagua of allegedly extorting businesspeople, governors and politicians seeking nomination tickets through his Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP).

The President also dismissed Gachagua's claims that he played a major role in securing his 2022 election victory, insisting that he personally campaigned for votes across the country.

However, Gachagua responded by criticising the President's development record during his recent engagements in Kisii and Nyamira counties.

According to The Star's November 11 report, the former Deputy President accused Ruto of recycling development promises and warned that his political camp would challenge the President's influence across the country in the 2027 elections.

Meanwhile, Daily Nation highlighted growing concerns over the deterioration of political discourse, with leaders increasingly resorting to personal attacks and provocative descriptions instead of addressing issues affecting ordinary Kenyans.

The publication also drew attention to constitutional provisions concerning national values, accountability and the responsibilities of public officers.

KBC Digital, in its November 9 coverage, separately reported Ruto's accusations against Gachagua over alleged extortion involving politicians seeking DCP nomination tickets.

The allegations have not been independently established as facts.

The growing confrontation has placed the two leaders at the centre of an increasingly heated political contest, with their public exchanges attracting attention as preparations for the 2027 General Election gather momentum.

The intervention by religious leaders now adds another dimension to the dispute, raising questions about whether political competition in Kenya is increasingly moving away from policy discussions towards personal confrontations.