Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has returned to the country after close to two months in the United States, sparking a dramatic welcome at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
His arrival turned into a spectacle as crowds of loyal supporters camped at the airport overnight, determined to give him what they termed a “hero’s reception.”
In a short address posted on his official page here, Gachagua described his foreign trip as fruitful and thanked his followers for the overwhelming show of solidarity. His return quickly became the most followed story of the day, dominating TV coverage and trending across social media platforms.
The mood at JKIA was tense but electrified. A heavy police presence was visible, with officers deployed to control swelling crowds that waved placards, sang songs, and shouted pro-Gachagua slogans. The charged scenes highlighted how much political influence he still commands even after leaving office.
Plans are already in motion for Gachagua to head straight to Kamukunji grounds, where a major rally is expected. His team has also hinted at stopovers along the way before he proceeds to Wamunyoro, his home area, where he is likely to consolidate his grassroots base.
Political observers say his grand return signals a new phase in his career, positioning him not just as an opposition figure but also as a potential kingmaker ahead of 2027.
By rallying around the united opposition, he has placed himself at the heart of Kenya’s next big political battle, with many now keen to hear the message he will deliver.
Attention now shifts to Kamukunji, where his first major speech is expected to set the tone for his comeback. Whether he calls for unity, resistance, or a fresh opposition wave, one thing is clear, Rigathi Gachagua has firmly reinserted himself into the national conversation.
By Nairobi