Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua failed to address a promised rally at Kamukunji Grounds on Thursday, despite his Democratic Congress Party (DCP) allies' pledges that the gathering would cap his return from a 43-day trip to the United States.

• Gachagua touched down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 1 p.m., received by DCP Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala and others.
• Police fired tear gas at Cabanas on Mombasa Road as stones were hurled at Gachagua’s motorcade, dispersing crowds amidst a heavy security presence.
• Malala accused the government of frustrating the event, claiming police were deployed to block Gachagua’s reception and planned to arrest him, while allies vowed to escort him to his Karen home after he was missing from the rally stopover.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has re-emerged as a vocal opposition figure, directly challenging President William Ruto. After being removed from office a year ago, Gachagua has spent the past month in the United States, criticizing the government on various issues, and his return coincides with crucial by-elections, setting up a direct political contest ahead of the 2027 general election.

• Rigathi Gachagua was removed from his D.P. role a year prior due to accusations including gross misconduct and insubordination.
• Gachagua used his time in the United States to frequently attack the government, citing issues such as corruption and human rights violations.
• His return to Kenya is strategically timed for upcoming by-elections, marking his first direct political confrontation with President Ruto since his removal.