Rigathi Gachagua Continues US Tour with Visit to Los Angeles, California

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is currently engaged in a high-stakes gamble across the Atlantic, courting the Kenyan diaspora in the United States while simultaneously unleashing a barrage of criticism against President William Ruto’s administration. 

What began as an outreach programme is rapidly evolving into a full-blown challenge to the president's authority, threatening to destabilise the existing political landscape back home. Throughout his month-long tour, under the banner of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), Gachagua has traversed the American landscape, holding town hall meetings from Boston to Seattle. 

His core message celebrates the Kenyan diaspora's achievements and entrepreneurial spirit, presenting them as a blueprint for national success hindered only by perceived failings in Kenya's governance. He has consistently stressed the importance of education, healthcare, security, and economic inclusivity as pillars for national progress, appealing to expatriates to wield their political influence in shaping Kenya's future trajectory.

However, it is Gachagua’s scathing condemnation of President Ruto that has truly ignited the political fuse. Accusations of broken promises, endemic corruption, and democratic erosion have formed the crux of his critique. The most explosive allegation – that Ruto allegedly met with Al-Shabaab operatives – has prompted the Interior Ministry to summon Gachagua for questioning upon his return, suggesting a rapidly escalating feud between the former allies. 

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has confirmed the request for a statement. The timing of Gachagua's American offensive coincides with growing discontent amongst some sectors of the diaspora regarding Ruto's policies. By positioning himself as a reformist alternative, Gachagua hopes to galvanise support for a potential challenge to the incumbent in the next election cycle.