Former Deputy President and Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has expressed gratitude to Kenyans for the warm welcome he received upon his return from a six-week tour of the United States.

Gachagua landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday, August 21, 2025, where he was met by his supporters, party officials, and political allies. The enthusiastic crowd broke into chants of his name, waving party flags as his convoy made its way out of the airport.

“Thank you, my great people of Kenya, for the love. I am happy to be back home,” Gachagua wrote on his official X account.

Tight security at JKIA

His arrival, however, was marked by heavy security. Anti-riot police, water cannons and contingents of the General Service Unit (GSU) were stationed around the airport and along Mombasa Road. Helicopters hovered overhead as police attempted to control crowds and prevent possible clashes between rival groups.

Despite fears that he might be arrested on arrival, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja dismissed the speculation earlier in the day, describing the return as an “ordinary event”.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen also addressed questions about the police presence, insisting he had not been informed of the deployment. He explained that the National Police Service is a decentralised institution, and officers can act independently to maintain peace without always consulting top officials.

Supporters defy tension

Supporters of the DCP leader had camped at the airport from early morning, determined to give him a hero’s welcome. They cheered as he was escorted by his security team through the crowd to his convoy. Traffic along Mombasa Road was briefly disrupted as groups attempted to follow his motorcade.

Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala accused the government of planning to frustrate Gachagua’s homecoming, claiming there were even discussions to divert his flight to another city. However, he praised supporters for turning out in large numbers, saying it proved the DCP remained strong despite political challenges.

Gachagua’s return comes at a politically charged time, with his party positioning itself as a strong opposition force against President William Ruto’s administration. He was expected to lead a procession to Kamukunji Grounds in Nairobi, where he planned to address supporters and outline his party’s next steps, but the plans were later cancelled.