Nairobi is tense as many await the arrival of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who is expected to land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 2 p.m. today.
Supporters of Gachagua have already camped outside the airport since last night, preparing to welcome him in large numbers. However, growing fears of possible violence are spreading after claims of a plan to disrupt his reception surfaced on social media.
DCP TV shared videos on X showing groups of boda boda riders gathering in what seemed to be a coordinated move. In the short clip, dozens of motorbikes are parked along a road as riders wearing reflective jackets move around and talk.
The post alleged that these riders were ferried from areas like Mathare, Kibera and Kayole with the aim of blocking or even attacking Gachagua’s convoy.
The same warnings have been shared by other users who cautioned that motorbikes could be used as tools to create chaos.
The matter took a more serious turn when Democratic Citizen Party Deputy Leader Cleophas Malala held a press conference, accusing senior government officials of being behind the scheme. He pointed fingers at Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, claiming they were secretly planning to infiltrate the reception with hired groups.
Malala went further to name MPs George Aladwa and Beatrice Elachi as those tasked with overseeing the operation.
According to him, the plan involves looting, destruction of property and even attacks on innocent citizens to create a justification for heavy police crackdowns.
Malala also raised concerns that Gachagua’s flight could be diverted to Kisumu or Mombasa as part of the wider scheme.
Despite that, he assured that the DCP has alternative plans to ensure their leader receives a huge welcome wherever he lands.
He urged business owners to secure their shops, warning that the party will not allow Kenya to be pushed into chaos.
Other leaders within the DCP echoed his sentiments, suggesting that the government wants to weaken the reception and possibly create grounds to arrest Gachagua.
The situation has attracted even more attention because Gachagua has been one of the most vocal critics of President William Ruto since his impeachment in October 2024.
His decision to form the Democratic Citizen Party has added to political tensions, as the party has gained significant popularity in just a short period.
His rallies have previously faced disruptions, such as the chaotic scenes during his Bungoma event in July, raising concerns that similar confrontations may unfold today.
Police presence at JKIA has been increased, with officers deployed in large numbers. Authorities have described the operation as routine, but many Kenyans are not convinced.
The mood in the city remains uneasy as the return of Gachagua could either become a major show of political strength or spiral into violence, depending on how events play out this afternoon.
