The highly anticipated return of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to Kenya on August 21, 2025, from a 43-day trip to the United States, was marred by widespread violence and chaos. What his team had promoted as "the mother of all peaceful processions" along Mombasa Road quickly descended into a scene of attacks on journalists and supporters alike, far from the "picture-perfect" homecoming his allies had envisioned.

Upon his arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 1 p.m., Gachagua was received by Democratic Congress Party (DCP) Deputy Leader Cleophas Malala, Nyandarua Senator John Methu, and other key supporters. The motorcade, which included Senator John Methu (Nyandarua), Joe Nyutu (Murang'a), Karung'o Wathang'wa (Kiambu), Kirinyaga Woman Rep Njeri Maina, Embakasi South MP Julius Mawathe, and former Starehe MP Maina Kamanda, initially moved along the Eastern Bypass before being diverted to Enterprise Road and then back to Mombasa Road.

During the procession, unidentified groups described as "goons" unleashed a wave of violence, pelting stones and blocking sections of the road. Journalists from Standard Group, Royal Media Services (RMS), and TV47 bore the brunt of these attacks.

A Standard Group crew, consisting of Brian Otieno, Collins Oduor, Jeff Kirui, Steven Otieno, and Geoffrey Muitai, had their vehicle rammed by another car and its windows shattered by stones. Jeff Kirui was injured and subsequently taken to hospital. Similarly, an RMS journalist was injured and rushed to hospital after being struck while filming. Beyond physical injuries, reporters were assaulted, robbed, and their equipment was destroyed. Even supporters of the DCP making their way back from the airport were targeted in the widespread unrest.

The attacks drew swift and strong condemnation from national bodies. The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) released a statement strongly condemning the violent assault and robbery of journalists, highlighting it as a grave threat to press freedom. The MCK called upon the Inspector General of Police to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure the perpetrators were brought to justice, emphasizing that such actions undermine the crucial role of the media.

Former Chief Justice David Maraga also weighed in, criticizing the government's perceived inaction. Maraga strongly condemned the use of violence against citizens and journalists, stating that President Ruto's "continued use of armed militias against citizens, as security forces watch without any action, continues to threaten the safety and security of the nation." He further noted that such unchecked violence erodes public trust in state institutions and insisted on the urgent need to confront this lawlessness, underscoring the broader implications for national safety and democratic principles.