Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s much-publicised return from the United States on Thursday morning drew little public interest, despite weeks of hype by his party officials.
Gachagua had travelled to the U.S. on July 9 for what he described as a two-month political outreach programme. The tour was cut short on August 21, with sources citing low turnouts at his events and a lack of engagement with key American stakeholders.
At Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, expectations of a large reception fell flat. Only a handful of MPs, senators and supporters gathered, alongside a small crowd critics claimed had been mobilised. Plans for a grand procession along Mombasa Road failed to generate attention, with commuters largely ignoring the motorcade.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen downplayed the event, warning against attempts to incite unrest. Political analysts say the muted reception reflected Gachagua’s dwindling influence. “Kenyans have moved on from his theatrics,”
Online, Kenyans mocked the low-key return, trending hashtags such as #FailedUSATour and #ShamefulReturn. Comparisons were drawn to Raila Odinga’s 2017 return from abroad, which attracted massive crowds despite heavy police presence.
The Nairobi Expressway Company also dismissed reports that parts of the road had been closed for his motorcade, terming the claims false.
Gachagua has vowed to revitalise his DCP through countrywide rallies in the coming weeks. However, analysts say Thursday’s underwhelming welcome underscores the challenge he faces in regaining political ground after his impeachment.
For a man once central to Mt. Kenya politics and a vocal critic of the government, the reception was a stark reminder of changing political tides.
