Nairobi, Kenya- Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has ended his two-month United States diaspora tour a month early, citing the need to prepare for upcoming by-elections.
Gachagua, who left Kenya on July 9 for what was planned as a two-month trip, announced early Thursday, August 14, that he would return home immediately to join party activities ahead of the November 27 polls.
“I had a very successful and fulfilling visit to the United States with serious engagements with Kenyans in the diaspora. I regret being unable to visit the scheduled remaining States since I need to get back home to join our party, DCP, in preparation for the upcoming by-elections,” Gachagua said.
The DCP deputy leader, Cleophas Malala, had already unveiled candidates on August 5, confirming the party’s participation in all 22 jurisdictions where by-elections will be held.
Apology to Organisers and Supporters
Gachagua apologised to event organisers and Kenyans he was scheduled to meet, promising to resume the tour in early 2026. He also thanked diaspora supporters for their hospitality.
“I salute the organisers and officials of the DCP chapters for superb planning, organisation, and meticulous coordination,” he said, adding that he would take a few days to rest before making his return itinerary public.
Trip Shadowed by Controversy
The decision to return comes amid controversy over remarks Gachagua made during the tour.
Last week, the former deputy president alleged that President William Ruto had held a secret meeting with three Al Shabaab members in Mandera. He also claimed the scrapping of vetting before ID issuance in Northeastern Kenya was part of a plan to register non-Kenyans indiscriminately.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has since ordered Gachagua to record a statement with authorities upon his return, saying the allegations were serious and required investigation.
Gachagua responded defiantly on August 10, insisting he was unafraid of arrest and standing by his claims.
Notably, his Thursday statement announcing the early end of the trip made no mention of the controversy, instead focusing solely on the party’s election preparations.
