Tension At JKIA As Rigathi Gachagua Returns From U.S. Tour

Rigathi Gachagua interacting with his followers

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's return to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday became tense when a group of disorderly youths on boda bodas invaded the area, chanting "two-term" and dispersing supporters who had assembled to greet him.

Hundreds of supporters of the Democratic Congress Party (DCP), many clad in party colors, gathered at the airport exit from the early morning hours.

Numerous youths congregated around the Mombasa Road junction, chanting slogans in favor of the opposition, while men and women dressed in black tried to manage the growing crowd.

The DCP stated that Thursday's August 21st program will end with a rally at Kamukunji Grounds, where Gachagua is anticipated to speak to the nation.

The procession was scheduled to travel from JKIA through the Nairobi Central Business District, with party officials encouraging members to stay peaceful and adhere to the designated routes.

Cleophas Malala speaking at past event. Photo :Malala

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen reassured the public on Tuesday that security agencies were ready to manage any disturbances.

“Let me say that the security sector is prepared to deal with any security issues,” Murkomen said.

Gachagua left Kenya on July 9, 2025, for his first international journey since stepping down in October 2024. During his six-week tour in the U.S., he visited Seattle, Boston, Dallas, Kansas City, Baltimore, and California. There, he established DCP satellite offices, engaged with diaspora communities, and conducted town hall meetings.

Nonetheless, the former Deputy President shortened the tour to return home for the November by-elections.

He expressed regret for canceling visits to other scheduled states in a statement released last Thursday.

“I regret being unable to visit the scheduled remaining states since I need to get back home to join our party in preparation for the upcoming by-elections, the statement read.

Earlier, DCP Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala urged Kenyans to gather at JKIA at 8 a.m. to welcome him.

“We call on the people of Kenya to show up at JKIA to receive our leader, Rigathi Gachagua,” Malala said.