Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s two-month “diaspora engagement tour” in the United States is now raising eyebrows, with multiple Kenyan diaspora members accusing him of turning the trip into a money-making mission rather than genuine outreach.
Despite his stated goal of discussing the “state of the nation,” many Kenyans living in the US claim Gachagua is only engaging with wealthy elites — leaving out ordinary Kenyans who can’t afford the steep fees allegedly being charged to access him.
According to sources in Dallas and Boston, attending one of Gachagua’s public events costs a minimum of $1,500 (approx. KSh 195,000). Those seeking a private one-on-one audience are reportedly being asked to part with $5,000 (approx. KSh 650,000), while a simple photo with the former DP allegedly costs $500 (KSh 65,000).
“He came here saying he wants to talk about the problems we face in the diaspora, yet he’s only interested in those who can raise thousands of dollars. Where does that leave the common hustler?” lamented a Kenyan in California.
Even more controversial are claims that several churches across the US were approached and asked to conduct special fundraisers to “support Gachagua’s mission.” One church member in Baltimore revealed that congregants were asked to contribute at least $1,000 (KSh 130,000) each to facilitate Gachagua’s stay.
Critics now argue that the former DP’s trip is less about national dialogue and more about personal fundraising — a “dollar heist” under the guise of diplomacy.
“Let’s call it what it is — this is a high-level political fundraiser to bankroll Gachagua’s personal ambitions and comfort,” said a disgruntled diaspora leader in Seattle.
As Gachagua moves on to his next stop, pressure is mounting for him to come clean on the finances surrounding his tour and explain why struggling Kenyans abroad are being asked to pay for access to their former leader.
