Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua jetted back into the country on Thursday afternoon, cutting short his four-week political tour of the United States to a rousing reception at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
After a 15-hour flight, Gachagua was greeted by a sea of chanting supporters and a delegation of political allies led by DCP Deputy Leader Cleophas Malala and Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara. Banners were hoisted, songs of solidarity rang out, and the arrival terminal quickly turned into a political rally.
The crowd’s energy was so intense that security officers were forced to intervene, setting up barricades and managing surges of supporters eager to catch a glimpse of their leader. Traffic along the Mombasa Highway and parts of the Expressway was temporarily disrupted as police attempted to control the swelling procession.
Though Gachagua refrained from addressing the press or supporters immediately at the airport, all eyes now turn to Kamukunji grounds, where he is expected to make his first major statement since returning home.
Malala revealed earlier that police had been notified of the reception plans in advance, including a procession from JKIA through the Nairobi CBD to Kamukunji. The move was meant to avert clashes with law enforcement, a frequent flashpoint during political homecomings in Kenya.
Gachagua’s return sets the stage for what could be a fiery re-entry into the political scene, as the former DP seeks to reassert himself after weeks abroad. The sheer turnout at JKIA signals that, despite his impeachment last year, Gachagua’s political machine remains active and ready for the next chapter.
