On the 9th of July 2025 the former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua who is now the leader of the democracy for citizens party (DCP) embarked on a two month trip to the United states.It is important to note that this marks his first international trip since his impeachment in october 2024. In his brief earlier before his trip, he highlighted that the reason for the long trip is to speak to the people in diaspora and make them aware of what is currently the state of the country as he also make ways to foster investments patnership ahead of 2027 general election.
Welcome in Seattle: A Jubilant Reception
Indeed the former deputy president has his following as it was evident on how the Kenyans in diaspora received him with chants, dances and jubilant songs as he landed at the airport and he said…..
The reception is unmatched and we already feel at home
Diaspora Town Halls & Economic Motifs
On July 11, Gachagua kicked off his first formal engagement in Seattle’s Kenyan community where he described the encounter as both engaging and fruitful. He praised the Kenyan diaspora as a candid, hardworking and forthright community, noting their openness in sharing their views on the current state of the nation where he is working tirelessly and putting in the efforts to make sure their concerns about the nation and their hope for a better Kenya will be implemented
Political Rhetoric & Critiques
Before his departure, Gachagua unleashed pointed criticisms of President William Ruto, accusing the administration of ethnic favoritism, repression, and failure to address economic grievances that are clearly known to the people. He urged the President to “stop being angry” and to restore dignity in Kenya’s social contract, including opposing the Housing Levy and oppressive deductions.Critics like the cabinet secretary of health Aden Duale termed Gachagua’s trip as one that lacked an agenda as he said Somali diaspora wouldn’t support Gachagua’s initiative .
Many may wonder as what is really the reason for Gachagua’s trip and here is a little breakdown of what could be:
- Political Rebranding & Strategy
From the time of his impeachment on 8th October 2024, Gachagua has cultivated a populist opposition identity. So the stimulates the launch of the DCP, that will aim to capture the growing frustrations with the current governance while asserting diaspora voices in Kenya’s political transformation
- Mobilizing Diaspora Influence
According to statics, the Kenyan diaspora contributes billions annually through remittances and investment, making them a potent force in both the economy and electoral influence. So it is rigt to say Gachagua seeks to formalize this into organized support networks abroad
- International Messaging
Former deputy president president has grabbed this opportunity and he is set to use this opportunity to act like the voice of the international community on Kenyan issues. This will help him navigate diplomatic and media spaces beyond domestic politics
Summary
In conclusion, Gachagua expressed concern about the growing discontent among Kenyans both at home and abroad while highlighting the collective pain and frustration regarding the nation’s trajectory. He emphasised that the insights and sentiments shared by diaspora Kenyans have strengthened his resolve.
