Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has announced an early end to his United States tour, citing the need to help his party prepare for the upcoming by-elections scheduled for November 27, 2025.
Gachagua, who left Kenya on July 9, 2025, had been visiting Kenyans in different states, engaging the diaspora on matters of national interest and strengthening ties with international stakeholders. In a statement on Thursday, he described the trip as “successful and fulfilling” but stressed that party obligations now required his immediate return.
“I regret being unable to visit the scheduled remaining states since I need to get back home to join our party in preparation for the upcoming by-elections,” he said. The Democratic Congress Party leader apologised to organisers and diaspora Kenyans he had yet to meet, promising to reschedule the engagements for early next year.
Gachagua noted he would take a short rest before resuming political activities and would make his updated itinerary public. He also expressed gratitude to Kenyans in the US for their “love, warmth, and hospitality,” praising party officials in the US chapters for “superb planning, organisation and coordination.”
His return comes just days after the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) confirmed the November 27 date for multiple by-elections across the country. Political analysts believe his presence will be critical in mobilising grassroots support for his party ahead of the polls.
The US trip was Gachagua’s first foreign visit since his removal from office in October 2024. He was seen off at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport by allies including Nyandarua Senator John Methu, Kirinyaga Woman Representative Jane Njeri Maina, and former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala.
As the political season heats up, Gachagua’s decision underscores the urgency with which parties are approaching the high-stakes by-elections.
