Former Deputy President and Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has confirmed that he will return to Kenya earlier than planned, cutting short his ongoing visit to the United States.
In a statement posted on his official X account on Thursday morning, Gachagua explained that political developments at home required his immediate attention.
His two-month itinerary, which included meetings with Kenyan communities across several states, will now be left incomplete.
“I had a very successful and fulfilling visit to the United States of America with serious engagements with Kenyans in the Diaspora.
I regret being unable to visit the scheduled remaining states since I need to get back home to join our party,” Gachagua wrote.
According to him, the decision was prompted by preparations for upcoming by-elections in different regions, where the DCP intends to field candidates.
“In preparation for the upcoming by-elections in various parts of our country,” he stated, without revealing specific locations or timelines.
Gachagua’s trip, which began in July, saw him launch the DCP’s first satellite party office in Boston on July 20.
The US tour was aimed at strengthening ties with diaspora communities, mobilising political support, and discussing the party’s vision with Kenyans abroad.
Addressing those who had been expecting him in other states, Gachagua issued a public apology and promised to reschedule the visits for early next year. “My profound apologies to the organisers and Kenyans whom I was to meet; the same has been rescheduled for early next year,” he wrote.
He also noted that before returning to Kenya, he would take a short break. “I have taken a few days to rest before heading home, and as promised, my itinerary will be made public,” he said, expressing gratitude to diaspora Kenyans for their hospitality.
Gachagua concluded by commending the DCP’s US chapters for their coordination of the trip. “I salute the organisers and officials of the DCP chapters for superb planning, organisation, and meticulous coordination. You are simply the best. God bless you all, and God bless Kenya,” his post read.
The by-elections mentioned by Gachagua are expected to be a test of strength for the relatively new DCP, which has been positioning itself as a rising force in Kenya’s political scene.
His early return signals that the party is taking the contests seriously and is eager to consolidate support on the ground.
By K24 Digital