The Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader, Rigathi Gachagua, has ended his month-long United States tour earlier than planned. The decision, he explained, is to prepare for the upcoming by-elections in Kenya.
In a statement released early Thursday morning, August 14, Gachagua apologized to Kenyans he had planned to meet during the remaining leg of his tour. He said he intends to resume the trip in early 2026.
“I had a very successful and fulfilling visit to the United States of America with serious engagements with Kenyans in the Diaspora,” he said. “I regret being unable to visit the scheduled remaining States since I need to get back home to join our party, DCP, in preparation for the upcoming By-Elections in various parts of our country.”
Gachagua acknowledged the inconvenience caused by his early return, extending his profound apologies to both organisers and members of the Kenyan diaspora. “The same has been rescheduled for early next year,” he confirmed.
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Before returning to Kenya, the DCP leader said he would take a few days of rest. He also promised to make his public itinerary known soon.
“I thank the Kenyans in the States for the love, warmth, and hospitality they accorded to us. I salute the organisers and officials of the DCP chapters for superb planning, organisation, and meticulous coordination,” he added.
The early end to his US tour comes amid controversy surrounding comments Gachagua made during his trip. A week ago, he claimed that President William Ruto held a secret meeting with three Al Shabaab members in Mandera. Gachagua also suggested that the scrapping of the vetting process before ID issuance in Northeastern Kenya could be a scheme to register non-Kenyans indiscriminately.
These claims sparked swift government response. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen instructed Gachagua to record a statement with the authorities once he returned to Kenya, saying the allegations were serious and needed thorough investigation.
Despite this, Gachagua doubled down on his claims in a statement on Sunday, August 10, asserting that he was unafraid of any legal consequences.
In the statement announcing the end of his US trip, however, Gachagua focused entirely on the upcoming by-elections and did not reference his previous controversial claims.
The DCP is gearing up for a major political battle on November 27, when by-elections will take place across 22 jurisdictions in Kenya. A week ago, on August 5, DCP deputy leader Cleophas Malala unveiled the candidates vying for these positions, emphasizing that the party would be represented in all contests.
Political analysts suggest that Gachagua’s early return highlights the strategic importance of the by-elections for his party. The DCP aims to consolidate its influence nationwide, especially in constituencies that have historically been competitive.
The timing of Gachagua’s return is also seen as a way to maintain visibility and momentum for the party’s candidates. His presence on the ground may sway undecided voters and energize party supporters ahead of the polls.
Some observers note that the controversy surrounding his statements in the US may either strengthen his base, who see him as fearless, or attract scrutiny from government authorities and critics.
Party insiders reveal that Gachagua’s itinerary in Kenya will include rallies, candidate training sessions, and meetings with grassroots leaders to ensure coordinated campaigning.
“We are entering a critical phase for DCP. Our candidates need all the support they can get, and our leader’s presence is crucial,” a senior party official said.
The DCP leader’s US tour had been intended to strengthen ties with the diaspora community, discuss policy issues, and mobilize support for the party’s agenda. Several events were held across major cities, including New York, Washington D.C., and Chicago.
Gachagua described these diaspora engagements as “very successful and fulfilling,” highlighting the enthusiastic reception he received from Kenyan communities abroad.
Despite cutting the tour short, Gachagua expressed optimism that the diaspora events would resume next year, promising continued dialogue and partnership with Kenyans living overseas.
Analysts say the by-elections will be an important test of DCP’s popularity and organizational strength ahead of larger elections in the coming years. The results may also influence coalition politics in Kenya, as various parties position themselves strategically.
Gachagua’s approach of balancing international engagements with domestic political duties shows a calculated effort to maintain influence both at home and among the diaspora.
Political commentators argue that by prioritizing the by-elections, Gachagua is signaling the party’s commitment to grassroots politics and direct voter engagement.
Observers also point out that the DCP’s comprehensive participation across all 22 by-election constituencies is an aggressive move, demonstrating confidence in the party’s candidates and strategy.
The coming weeks are expected to be intense, with rallies, debates, and campaign events dominating the political landscape. Gachagua’s leadership role in coordinating these efforts will be closely watched by supporters and rivals alike.
As November 27 approaches, all eyes will be on Kenya’s political parties to see how they mobilize voters, manage controversies, and navigate the competitive electoral environment.
Gachagua’s early return from the US may have caused some disappointment abroad, but domestically, it underscores the party’s focus on winning key political battles.
Whether this strategic pivot will pay off in the by-elections remains to be seen, but it certainly places Gachagua and the DCP at the center of Kenya’s political conversation in the coming months.
