Gachagua cuts short US trip to lead by-election campaigns
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. File photo
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has abruptly ended his US tour--originally intended to span two(2) months-- announcing his return to Kenya in order to begin preparations for the impending November 27 by-elections.
In a statement issued on Thursday, August 14, 2025, he apologised to his hosts and the Kenyan diaspora for cutting the trip short.
“I had a very successful and fulfilling visit … I regret being unable to visit the remaining scheduled States … I am sorry to cut my trip short … The visits have been rescheduled for early next year.”
His return is taking place amid mounting pressure from Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who has demanded Gachagua record a formal statement with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations regarding the explosive terror-related allegations he made while abroad.
During his tour, Gachagua claimed that President William Ruto met with al-Shabaab militia members in Mandera to discuss business deals.
Mr Murkomen dismissed these assertions as “comedy and caricature,” insisting that unless Gachagua comes forward with verifiable information, his remarks will not be taken seriously.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki echoed the demand, adding that if Gachagua truly possesses actionable intelligence, it is his duty to provide it to relevant agencies. He called for accountability.
“We want to ask the relevant agencies to ensure that anyone claiming to have information on terrorists records their statement … to protect Kenya from harm.”
Gachagua’s early return aligns with a crowded political calendar.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission is gearing up for by-elections across five constituencies — Ugunja, Mbeere North, Kasipul, Banissa and Magarini — all scheduled November.
These vacancies, left for varying reasons including deaths, resignations, and court rulings, now present a vital opportunity for political parties to influence local representation.
For Gachagua and his Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), these elections are a potential springboard for renewed national relevance.
