Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua returned to Kenya on Thursday afternoon, concluding a political tour in the United States that was cut short. His arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) was met with a large and enthusiastic reception, causing significant security and traffic disruptions. A delegation of political allies and supporters, including DCP Deputy Leader Cleophas Malala and Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara, received Gachagua as he disembarked. Hundreds of supporters thronged the airport’s arrival terminal, chanting his name and singing solidarity songs. The charged atmosphere prompted security officers to intervene to manage the crowd. The high turnout and ensuing commotion led police to erect barricades on several roads, disrupting traffic flow along the Mombasa Highway and the Expressway. The crowd's mobilization was not unexpected; hours before Gachagua's arrival, Malala had announced that the party had formally notified the police about plans for a peaceful procession from JKIA through the Nairobi Central Business District to the Kamukunji Grounds. While Gachagua did not address the crowds at the airport, reports indicated he was scheduled to speak at the planned rally later in the day, signaling a significant moment in his political career and a strong show of support from his base.

Following his highly-anticipated return, Rigathi Gachagua’s motorcade was reportedly attacked by a group of youths as it made its way from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport along Mombasa Road. The incident, occurring at the City Cabanas stage, devolved into chaotic scenes as unidentified individuals on motorcycles allegedly pelted the convoy with stones and other projectiles. This led to a confrontation between the attackers and Gachagua’s supporters, with police intervening to disperse the crowds. 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 by firing tear gas to disperse the crowd and restore order, an act that significantly disrupted traffic. Gachagua’s political allies condemned the violence, accusing his rivals of orchestrating the incident, which added another layer of political tension to his return and highlighted deep divisions within the country’s political landscape.

During his recent tour of seven states in the United States, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua defended his decision to meet Kenyans along tribal lines. In an interview with Citizen TV, Gachagua explained that Kenyans in the diaspora are organized into community groups and that his meetings were based on invitations. He asserted his identity as a Kenyan championing the interests of Kenyans, while acknowledging his regional origin. Gachagua stated,