Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua failed to address a highly anticipated rally at Kamukunji Grounds on Thursday, sparking confusion among his supporters and fueling claims of an impending arrest.
According to Cleophas Malala, the deputy leader of the Democratic Change Party (DCP), police officers were deployed to disrupt Gachagua’s arrival and prevent him from addressing the crowd. “We wanted to receive our party leader but they deployed police officers. They planned to arrest him but we said no,” Malala told supporters.
Gachagua landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) shortly before 2 p.m., where he was received by a charged crowd of supporters and political allies. A convoy of vehicles then escorted him from the airport, with residents lining the streets, waving placards, and chanting his name. Excitement mounted throughout the afternoon as thousands gathered at Kamukunji Grounds, eager to hear his message.
Despite the build-up, Gachagua did not appear at the rally. Instead, his allies including Malala, Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina, Nyandarua Senator John Methu, and Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu took to the stage to address supporters. His absence left many puzzled, with Malala later assuring that Gachagua would be escorted safely to his Karen residence.
The day was marred by chaos when Gachagua’s convoy encountered violence near the Cabanas area along Mombasa Road. Goons reportedly pelted vehicles with stones, forcing motorists to a standstill as rival groups barricaded the road with rocks. Images and videos circulating online captured the tense confrontations and disruption of traffic.
Gachagua had returned to the country after a two-month stay in the United States. Earlier in the week, Malala had promised a grand procession to welcome the former deputy president a promise that ended in uncertainty and unrest.
