Gachagua Arrives in Nairobi After US Tour

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua arrived back in Nairobi on Thursday following a controversial tour of the United States.

Gachagua landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to a large crowd of Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) supporters. Clad in party colours and chanting slogans, they were met by a significant deployment of anti-riot police and General Service Unit (GSU) officers. 

The show of force follows Gachagua’s remarks made abroad, including allegations linking President Ruto to extremist groups. During his month-long visit to the US, Gachagua opened several DCP offices and met with members of the Kenyan diaspora. 

However, it was his comments targeting the presidency that have attracted the most attention. Government officials have suggested that Gachagua could face questioning by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) for remarks they consider potentially destabilising.

The DCP had announced plans for a procession through Nairobi’s Central Business District, culminating in a rally at Kamukunji Grounds—a site with strong political symbolism. Party leaders, including Cleophas Malala and Jayne Kihara, have described Gachagua’s return as a moment of resistance against what they allege is an increasingly authoritarian administration. 

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has also criticised the government’s response, describing it as part of a troubling pattern of suppressing dissent.