A heavy police presence surrounded Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday morning ahead of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s return from the United States. Anti-terror units were stationed across the airport, while water cannons were positioned at key points in anticipation of possible unrest.
Why is Gachagua’s return drawing such attention?
Gachagua, who was impeached last October after a fallout with President William Ruto, is set to land after six weeks in the U.S. During his stay abroad, he mobilized his supporters and openly criticized Ruto’s administration over corruption, extrajudicial killings, and human rights abuses. His return has been branded by his Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) as a political homecoming, with the group calling on over one million supporters to flood JKIA in a show of strength.
Many supporters, already gathered at the airport in party attire, expressed enthusiasm for his return. One told Citizen Digital, “Our countdown is at two hours until we receive, and I am sure that he has seen many Kenyans here to receive him. This is to show that he is listening to Kenyans and he is very connected to their issues.”
How has the government responded?
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has warned that the government will not tolerate lawlessness. He stated that Gachagua’s rally at Kamukunji grounds would only proceed if police had been formally notified to ensure proper security. “The government will not allow unsanctioned public rallies to disrupt peace and business in Nairobi,” Murkomen emphasized.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja reinforced that the National Police Service remains in charge of security and expects “normalcy” despite the heightened political tensions.
All eyes are now on JKIA, where Gachagua’s arrival could set the stage for a political showdown between his supporters and state authorities.
By Risper Akinyi