Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Thursday failed to address the much-publicised political rally at Nairobi’s Kamukunji Grounds, despite days of anticipation from his supporters.
His absence has sparked speculation, with his party, the Democratic Change Party (DCP), claiming there were plans to arrest him if he appeared at the event.
According to DCP’s deputy leader Cleophas Malala, police officers had been strategically deployed to block the former deputy president’s procession and prevent the gathering at Kamukunji. Malala insisted that the move was part of a wider plan to frustrate their political activities.
“We were ready to receive our party leader and hold a peaceful rally, but they sent police to block us. Their intention was to arrest him, but we stood firm and said no,” Malala told supporters.
A Grand Reception at the Airport
Gachagua touched down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) shortly before 2 pm, marking his return to the country after spending nearly two months in the United States. His arrival turned into a show of political strength, with hundreds of supporters, allies, and members of his party thronging the airport to receive him.
A long convoy of vehicles snaked its way from JKIA, with crowds lining sections of Mombasa Road. Supporters waved placards, sang songs, and chanted his name, creating a carnival-like atmosphere.
Excitement grew as the convoy headed towards Kamukunji Grounds, where the highlight of the day was expected—a major address by the former deputy president.
By mid-afternoon, Kamukunji was already filled with people who had travelled from different estates in Nairobi and even beyond. Many of them carried party colours, banners, and whistles, eager to hear what message Gachagua would deliver after his time abroad.
A Rally Without Gachagua
However, despite the charged atmosphere and the huge turnout, Gachagua never took the microphone. His supporters were left puzzled as his allies took turns addressing the gathering in his absence.
Those who spoke included DCP deputy leader Cleophas Malala, Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina, Nyandarua Senator John Methu, and Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu. They praised their leader, reassured the crowd of his safety, and hinted at possible political interference that prevented him from addressing the rally.
Malala told the crowd that their mission was to protect Gachagua and ensure he reached home safely. “We have delivered our leader home. We will make sure he sleeps in his own bedroom tonight,” Malala declared, without giving more details about why Gachagua stayed away from Kamukunji.
Goons Attack Convoy
The day’s events were further marred by chaos along Mombasa Road. As Gachagua’s convoy made its way from the airport towards Kamukunji, it was ambushed around the Cabanas area. A group of rowdy youth pelted stones at vehicles in the convoy, forcing it to slow down.
Videos and images seen by Newshub.co.ke showed the attackers hurling rocks as security personnel tried to shield the motorcade.
The situation escalated when rival groups blocked the road with huge stones, bringing traffic to a standstill and leaving many motorists stranded. The sudden violence disrupted movement for several hours before order was restored.
A Return Marked by Tension
Earlier in the week, Malala had announced plans for what he described as a “grand procession” to welcome the former deputy president back from the U.S. trip.
The rally at Kamukunji was meant to be the climax of the day, with Gachagua expected to outline his political agenda and respond to recent debates about his influence in the Mt. Kenya region and within the national political scene.
Instead, his silence left supporters with more questions than answers. His allies, however, insisted that the events of the day—including the heavy police presence and the attacks on his convoy—were evidence of attempts to intimidate and silence him.
Despite not addressing the rally, Gachagua’s return demonstrated that he still commands a loyal following, with crowds turning up in large numbers to welcome him. His next political moves, and whether he will eventually speak to the public, remain a matter of speculation.
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