Violence broke out in Nairobi on Thursday as impeached former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua returned to Kenya after a political tour of the United States.
Gachagua, once a key ally of President William Ruto during the 2022 elections, fell out with the president last year and was impeached. Since then, he has become one of Ruto’s fiercest critics and a leading opposition figure ahead of the 2027 presidential polls.
His return had been described as a potential “security threat” by Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen, who warned that authorities should prepare for unrest.
Hundreds of supporters converged on Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to welcome him back, chanting his popular anti-Ruto slogan “Wantam” — short for “one term.” But the celebrations quickly turned violent as crowds overwhelmed security forces and blocked one of the international arrival gates, leaving incoming tourists visibly rattled.
As Gachagua’s convoy left the airport, thousands of supporters followed, causing heavy traffic gridlock on Nairobi’s main highway. Clashes erupted when rival groups confronted one another, with youths and motorbike riders throwing stones at his motorcade. Police fired teargas to disperse the chaos, and several people were reported injured.
The turmoil underscored the growing political tension around Gachagua, who cut short his U.S. trip to rally support for his party and campaign in upcoming by-elections.
“Thank you, my great people of Kenya, for the love. I am happy to be back home,” Gachagua posted on X shortly after his return.
