Aasai

THE DCP has warned the government against disrupting the return of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, saying the politician will address his supporters at the Kamukunji Stadium in Nairobi on Thursday. The DCP yesterday urged Kenyans to turn out in large numbers to welcome Mr Gachagua when he lands at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport after a month-long visit to the US. 

“We wish to inform you that the schedule for Mr Gachagua’s return has not changed and our leader will be landing in the country this Thursday after a month-long visit to the US,” said DCP Deputy Leader, Cleophas Malala. “The motorcade will leave JKIA at 8am to the city centre and Gachagua will later proceed to Kamkunji Stadium – a historic site where he will address a public meeting,” added Mr Malala. He claimed that they had briefed the Inspector General of Police on the activities and called for adequate security. If the government stops Mr Gachagua at JKIA, Mr Malala has urged his supporters to prepare to receive him at Kisumu or Mombasa airports. He also warned against any attempt to arrest the former deputy president, saying there would be no peace like when he was ousted in October last year. 

When Mr Gachagua returns, he faces several political challenges in his bid to unseat President William Ruto in 2027. He initially returns at a time when there have been calls for his arrest due to allegations he made while in the US about the government and controversial remarks to tarnish the reputation of the regime. The former deputy president alleged that President Rutos administration is collaborating with terrorists from Somalia and is also responsible for instability in Sudan by collaborating with RSF fighters. Among those calling for Mr Gachagua to be arrested is President Rutos personal assistant, Mr Farouk Kibet. 

However, Mr Malala has threatened that he sky will fall if Mr Gachagua is arrested at the airport upon his return to the country. Mr Gachagua is also returning to find the opposition weakened and drinking water while the strength he showed while in the country is missing. Instead of political meetings, Opposition leaders – Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, Justin Muturi among others – have only been participating in meetings and their statements have failed to shake the Ruto government. There is also a fire burning within DAP-K between Mr Wamalwa and Trans Nzoia Governor, George Natembeya, each of whom seems to be targeted for the leadership of the party. Mr Natembeya has even threatened to leave DAP-K if there is no democracy within the party. In the Mbeere North by-election, Mr Gachagua will have to scratch his head whether he leaves it to the DP or the DCP will have a candidate.

 Mr Muturi who is the DP leader has suggested that Muminji Councillor and musician Newton Karish be supported by the opposition. Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku who left the seat was elected as the areas MP in 2022 on a DP ticket.On the other hand, the DCP also wants to present Evuvore Councillor Duncan Mbui to contest for the seat. There are also various groups that have emerged to vie for the dominance of Mount Kenya and the former deputy president will have to fight against that in order to continue to maintain his political dominance in the area.