Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently returned to Kenya following a political tour in the United States, which was cut short. His arrival on a Thursday afternoon was met with an exceptionally large and enthusiastic reception at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), leading to significant security and traffic disruptions. Upon disembarking, Gachagua was greeted by a delegation of political allies and staunch supporters, including DCP Deputy Leader Cleophas Malala and Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara. Hundreds of supporters thronged the airport’s arrival terminal, chanting his name and singing solidarity songs, creating a charged atmosphere that necessitated intervention from security officers to manage the fervent crowd. The high turnout and ensuing commotion prompted police to erect barricades on several roads, significantly disrupting traffic flow along the Mombasa Highway and the Expressway. The crowd's mobilization was anticipated, as Malala had announced hours prior that the party had formally notified the police of their plans for a peaceful procession from JKIA through the Nairobi Central Business District to the Kamukunji Grounds.

However, the events following Gachagua's airport reception took a turn for the worse. As his motorcade made its way from JKIA along Mombasa Road, it was reportedly attacked by a group of youths. This chaotic incident occurred at the City Cabanas stage, where unidentified individuals on motorcycles allegedly began pelting the convoy with stones and other projectiles. The attack caused damage to several vehicles, including those carrying journalists, and resulted in injuries to a number of Gachagua’s supporters and other motorists caught in the crossfire. Police responded to the escalating chaos by firing tear gas to disperse the crowds and restore order, marking a stark contrast to the largely peaceful procession that had preceded it. The violence disrupted traffic for a significant period and drew condemnations from Gachagua’s political allies, who accused his rivals of orchestrating the attacks. This incident has undeniably added another layer of political tension to Gachagua’s return, underscoring the deep divisions that characterize the country’s current political landscape.