NAIROBI, Kenya- Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has returned to Kenya after an extended stay in the United States and is at his Wamunyoro home in Nyeri.
His return on Tuesday, October 20, was low-key.
Gachagua had spent weeks in the US, where he met delegations of Kenyans living there and held political engagements in several states.
The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader left Kenya on August 26 for a trip initially expected to last about 50 days.
He later extended his stay, including time at his Texas home, after completing diaspora engagements.
Before leaving, Gachagua said his US programme would include stops in Spokane, Portland, Kansas, Dallas and Boston.
The meetings brought him into contact with Kenyan communities abroad as he continued to build support for his party ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Focus turns to politics at home
Gachagua’s return comes as political parties and leaders position themselves ahead of the next election.
The former Deputy President has been active in opposition politics since his impeachment in October 2024 and has called for a united opposition candidate to challenge President William Ruto.
His party has also been seeking to expand its support beyond its Mount Kenya base.
During his absence, Gachagua’s US meetings were described as both diaspora engagement and political outreach.
He has previously said Kenyans abroad can contribute ideas and resources to political efforts at home.
The trip also came amid questions about the DCP’s direction and Gachagua’s influence in the Mount Kenya region.
Wamunyoro, his rural home in Mathira, Nyeri County, has been a regular venue for political consultations.
Gachagua has hosted delegations of leaders and supporters there, including groups from outside the Mount Kenya region.
