Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s trip to the United States is not going as planned. He had hoped to raise KSh 500 million from Kenyans living abroad in just two weeks. But so far, sources say he has not even raised KSh 50 million.
The main reason for the failure is that many Kenyans in the diaspora are not happy with Gachagua’s tribal politics. Most of them, especially those from Mt. Kenya, feel that his message is old-fashioned and dangerous. In cities like Seattle, Baltimore, and Boston, his meetings had low attendance. Some people who came left early or refused to donate after hearing tribal remarks in his speeches.
Kenyans in the diaspora live in multicultural places. They do business and build friendships with people from all walks of life. They don’t want leaders who divide Kenyans based on tribe. Gachagua’s message of “protecting the mountain” does not fit with their values.
Many are also asking what the money is really for. Is it for development? Is it for Gachagua’s 2027 campaign? Or is it for personal use? Because there is no clear explanation, people are choosing not to give.
What was meant to show Gachagua’s strength is now showing his weakness. The diaspora has made it clear: they want unity, honesty, and leadership that brings Kenyans together. Gachagua’s failure to understand this has cost him not only money but also trust.
It’s now clear — tribal politics is no longer welcome, even outside Kenya.
