Introduction: A Highly Anticipated Return
Former Deputy President and Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua returned to Kenya on Thursday, August 21, 2025, after a six-week political tour of the United States, landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to a massive reception from thousands of enthusiastic supporters 25. The highly charged homecoming event drew significant political attention and required a substantial security presence amid concerns about potential disruptions. Gachagua's return marks a significant moment in Kenya's political landscape as the former deputy president has become one of President William Ruto's most vocal critics following their dramatic falling out last year and his subsequent impeachment.
1. Supporters' Enthusiastic Reception
Hundreds of supporters began gathering at JKIA from early Thursday morning, with many camping overnight to secure vantage positions for viewing their leader's arrival . The crowd filled the international arrivals terminal, with many dressed in DCP party colors, creating a sea of the party's symbolic hues throughout the airport area. The supporters chanted Gachagua's name and waved banners while singing songs of solidarity, turning the arrival terminal into what effectively resembled a political rally.
DCP leadership had actively mobilized supporters for the event, with Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala previously urging Kenyans to flock to JKIA for what he termed the "majestic walk of the king". Malala had boldly claimed that over 300,000 supporters would shield Gachagua from any potential government action and mocked state "threats" as hollow. Other prominent political figures present included Kiambu Senator Karungo Thangwa and veteran politician Maina Kamanda.
2. Substantial Security Deployment
In response to the planned gathering, the government deployed a heavy security contingent at JKIA and surrounding areas. The security apparatus included anti-riot police units, General Service Unit (GSU) officers, and regular police personnel who patrolled access routes leading to the airport. Security forces implemented heightened checks on every vehicle and individual entering the airport premises, with officers in combat gear conducting thorough searches of boots and bags.
The security deployment featured water cannons and multiple police vehicles positioned at key points to deter any potential disruptions. A helicopter was also spotted circling JKIA and its environs as part of the security surveillance measures. Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja had previously insisted that Gachagua would not receive special treatment, stating: "It is just a normal arrival. He will arrive like anyone else. Our role is to provide security and ensure safety for everyone. Those who break rules will be arrested".
3. Political Context and Tensions
Gachagua's return from his United States tour comes amid heightened political tensions in Kenya. The former deputy president had spent six weeks in the U.S. where he mobilized supporters and held public forums with Kenyans in the diaspora. During his overseas tour, he maintained harsh criticism against President William Ruto's administration, accusing it of corruption, extrajudicial killings, and human rights violations.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen had previously dismissed suggestions that Gachagua's return was extraordinary, remarking: "There are so many people landing in Kenya every day, so I don't know why we should be worried when one person is landing". However, Murkomen had also warned that security agencies remained on high alert and would deal with any security issues. The government had stated that legal action would be taken in case of any mayhem or disruptions.
4. Incident of Clashes and Disruptions
Despite the heavy security presence, the event was marred by some violent incidents. As Gachagua's convoy left JKIA, surrounded by scores of his supporters, they encountered groups of young men and motorbike riders on Mombasa Road who hurled stones at the motorcade. The attack resulted in a chaotic melee that prompted police to intervene with tear gas to disperse the crowds.
An AFP photographer witnessed several people being wounded during the violence. The clashes followed government warnings that Gachagua's return posed a "security threat" to the country. The violence briefly disrupted traffic flow along the Mombasa Highway and parts of the Expressway as police attempted to control the swelling procession of supporters.
5. Official Statements and Reactions
Following his arrival, Gachagua refrained from immediately addressing the press or supporters at the airport. However, he later took to social media to express gratitude to his supporters, posting on X: "Thank you, my great people of Kenya for the love. I am happy to be back home".
The government maintained its stance that the former deputy president would be treated like any other citizen. Interior CS Murkomen had stressed that while Gachagua had every right to return, security agencies remained prepared to deal with any security issues. Police Chief Kanja had emphasized that Gachagua was not "above the law" and could be summoned to record a statement immediately upon landing if circumstances warranted.
6. Next Steps and Political Implications
Gachagua's return sets the stage for what could be a fiery re-entry into Kenya's political scene as the former deputy president seeks to reassert himself after weeks abroad. The substantial turnout at JKIA signals that, despite his impeachment last year, Gachagua's political machine remains active and ready for the next chapter.
The DCP leadership had revealed that police had been notified of reception plans in advance, including a procession from JKIA through the Nairobi CBD to Kamukunji grounds. This move was intended to avert clashes with law enforcement, which have been a frequent flashpoint during political homecomings in Kenya. Gachagua is expected to make his first major statement since returning home at the Kamukunji grounds.
Conclusion: A Nation Closely Watching
Rigathi Gachagua's return to Kenya represents more than just a political figure coming home from an international trip—it signifies the continuing evolution of Kenya's political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections. The substantial show of force from both supporters and security agencies highlights the ongoing tensions between the government and opposition figures.
As Kenya moves toward the next electoral cycle, events such as these offer glimpses into the political alignments and strategies that will shape the country's future. The ability of all parties to navigate these developments within the bounds of law and peaceful discourse will prove crucial to Kenya's democratic stability. The nation now watches to see how Gachagua's return will influence the political dynamics in the coming weeks and months.
