Nairobi, Kenya- Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is back in the country after cutting short his four-week political tour of the United States, arriving to a hero’s welcome at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday afternoon.
Gachagua, who touched down after a 15-hour flight, was received by a charged crowd of supporters and a lineup of political allies.
Ahead of his arrival, the State had deployed heavy security at JKIA and on surrounding roads, heightening anticipation that his return could spark political drama.
Despite the heavy deployment, however, Gachagua’s convoy moved out of the airport smoothly — with no police interference, no teargas, and no blockades.
Political Undertones of the Homecoming
The homecoming comes at a politically charged moment, with Gachagua seeking to reassert himself after weeks abroad.
His allies framed the event as a show of strength and solidarity, casting the heavy turnout as proof of his enduring influence.
Deputy party leader Malala confirmed that the procession had been pre-arranged with security agencies. “We formally notified the Inspector General of Police and other Nairobi security officers. This is a peaceful procession from JKIA, through the CBD, ending at Kamukunji grounds,” Malala said.
Eyes on Kamukunji Grounds
Although Gachagua did not immediately address the crowd at the airport, his team confirmed that he is scheduled to speak at Kamukunji grounds, a symbolic venue for opposition politics.
The rally is expected to double as a political statement, potentially marking Gachagua’s renewed push for a central role in Kenya’s unfolding political realignments.
