Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has re-emerged as a combative figure at the forefront of the Opposition, challenging his former boss, President William Ruto. This comes a year after Gachagua's removal from office over accusations of gross misconduct, irregular wealth acquisition, insubordination, and fanning ethnic divisions. Gachagua spent the past month, or approximately six weeks/43 days, in the United States, where he consistently criticised the government on issues such as corruption, extrajudicial killings, and human rights violations. His return to Kenya on August 21, 2025, was strategically timed to coincide with a string of by-elections, setting the stage for his first direct political contest with President Ruto ahead of the 2027 general election.

The Democratic Congress Party (DCP) and its allies had meticulously planned Gachagua's homecoming, promoting it as the "mother of all peaceful processions." DCP Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala had publicly announced plans for a grand procession from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to the Nairobi central business district, culminating in a public rally at the symbolic Kamukunji Grounds. This event was intended to cap Gachagua's return and solidify his position as an opposition leader.

Gachagua touched down at JKIA at 1 p.m. aboard an Ethiopian Airline flight. He was received by a delegation of DCP leaders, including Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala and Nyandarua Senator John Methu, alongside other fervent supporters who had gathered earlier. Despite initial reports of allies being barred from certain airport sections, a joyous atmosphere initially prevailed, with crowds singing and chanting anti-Ruto slogans like "wantam" and "Kasongo." Gachagua emerged from his car's sunroof, acknowledging the welcoming gesture of his followers.

However, the celebratory mood quickly descended into chaos as the convoy proceeded along Mombasa Road. Armed goons attacked the motorcade, pelting vehicles with stones, disrupting the procession, and robbing individuals of their valuables. Police officers were deployed and fired tear gas at Cabanas on Mombasa Road as stones were hurled at Gachagua’s motorcade, dispersing crowds. Security forces maintained a heavy presence along the route, leading the convoy to divert several times before dispersing near the city centre.

The violence disproportionately affected journalists covering the event, with reporters from Standard Group, Royal Media Services (RMS), and TV47 being assaulted, robbed, and having their equipment destroyed. Some, like a Citizen TV videographer who sustained head injuries, required hospital treatment. Standard reporter Brian Otieno recounted the terrifying experience of shattered vehicle windows and threats with a knife, while photojournalist Collins Oduor described being robbed after goons gained access to their vehicle. DCP supporters making their way back from the airport were also targeted in the mayhem.

During a stopover where opposition leaders addressed supporters, Gachagua was conspicuously missing, his whereabouts unclear. His allies, including Malala, Methu, Embakasi North MP James Gakuya, and Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina, spoke in his place, vowing to escort him to his Karen home. Ultimately, the much-anticipated Kamukunji rally failed to materialize with Gachagua's presence.

DCP leaders vehemently condemned the government's actions, accusing it of frustrating the event. Cleophas Malala claimed police were deployed to block Gachagua’s reception and planned to arrest him, asserting, "We want Ruto to respect human rights." Senator John Methu declared the camp unbowed, stating, "We shall fight on until we deliver this country." Njeri Maina accused President Ruto of sending goons and arresting innocent youths, pledging to defend "Gen Zs." Senator Joe Nyutu called upon the international community to "rescue Kenya from Kasongo," and Embakasi North MP James Gakuya slammed Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, accusing him of hiring goons to disrupt Gachagua's return.

The attacks drew strong condemnation from national bodies. The Media Council of Kenya unequivocally denounced the violent assault and robbery of journalists, calling on the Inspector General of Police to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure perpetrators are brought to justice, emphasizing that such acts undermine press freedom. Similarly, former Chief Justice David Maraga strongly condemned the violence against citizens and journalists, criticising President Ruto’s alleged "continued use of armed militias against citizens" while security forces remained inactive. Maraga warned that this unchecked violence threatens national safety and erodes public trust in state institutions, urging an urgent confrontation with lawlessness.