The much-hyped Gachagua Rally at Nairobi’s Kamukunji Grounds on Thursday ended in confusion and disappointment after former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua failed to address the thousands of supporters who had gathered.
His absence fueled claims by allies in the Democratic Change Party (DCP) that there were secret plans by state agencies to arrest him at the rally.
Despite heavy mobilization, a dramatic convoy, and massive crowds chanting his name, Gachagua remained silent, leaving Kenyans asking why the once vocal politician avoided the podium.
Growing Tension Surrounding the Gachagua Rally
The Kamukunji event had been branded a political show of strength for Gachagua, who returned to the country after spending nearly two months in the United States. Supporters began gathering as early as mid-morning, carrying placards and chanting pro-Gachagua slogans, signaling their anticipation of a fiery comeback speech.
A convoy of vehicles escorted the former DP from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where he was received by allies including Cleophas Malala, Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina, Nyandarua Senator John Methu, and Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu. From the airport to Mombasa Road, crowds lined the streets in excitement, turning the procession into a high-stakes political event.
However, tension mounted as reports spread that Gachagua might face arrest if he appeared at Kamukunji. Malala, the DCP deputy leader, openly accused the government of plotting to block and detain the party leader. “They deployed police officers. They planned to arrest him but we said no,” Malala told supporters.
The heavy police presence around the rally venue only deepened speculation. By afternoon, the grounds were filled with thousands of people from across Nairobi and beyond. But when the time came, the man they had come to hear never spoke. His silence left the rally hanging in uncertainty.
Chaos and Violence Rock the Convoy
The Gachagua Rally hype took a violent twist before reaching Kamukunji Grounds. At the Cabanas area along Mombasa Road, hired goons ambushed the convoy with stones, forcing vehicles to halt as chaos broke out. Videos captured by Nyakundi Report showed rowdy youths pelting cars and barricading the highway with large rocks, paralyzing traffic.
This sudden violence disrupted the procession and highlighted the political hostility surrounding Gachagua’s return. For many observers, the attack was a calculated move to intimidate his supporters and derail the much-publicized rally. The convoy eventually maneuvered past the barricades, but the damage had been done—momentum had been lost, and security concerns escalated.
The attacks mirrored previous patterns in Kenyan politics where rival camps deploy goons to silence opponents. With supporters chanting at Kamukunji Grounds, the absence of their leader became even more glaring against the backdrop of violence on the streets.
Allies Promise Gachagua’s Safety
Even as supporters demanded answers, Gachagua’s political allies stepped in to calm tensions. Malala reassured the crowd that their leader was safe and under their protection. “We have brought the boss home. We will ensure he spends the night in his bedroom,” Malala declared, signaling that Gachagua had retreated to Karen instead of appearing before the rally crowd.
This explanation, however, did little to quell speculation. Was Gachagua truly avoiding arrest, or was he advised to stay away due to escalating tensions? His silence—uncharacteristic for a politician known for fiery speeches—sparked debate over his political strategy.
Political analysts argue that the no-show was deliberate, designed to paint the government as oppressive while portraying Gachagua as a victim of political persecution. By not speaking, he avoided arrest while fueling public sympathy. His allies, meanwhile, kept the narrative alive by addressing supporters and promising that their leader would re-emerge stronger.
Final Word
The Gachagua Rally at Kamukunji was meant to be a triumphant comeback but ended in silence, chaos, and suspicion. The claims of an impending arrest, the goon attacks, and the heavy police presence painted a picture of a deeply polarized political environment.
Whether Rigathi Gachagua deliberately avoided the rally or was forced into hiding, one thing is clear—the former DP remains a central figure in Kenya’s turbulent politics, and his next move will determine if this episode weakens him or propels him into a new phase of defiance.
