There was brief drama at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) between DCP leaders and police as former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua jetted back to the country.
The scuffle happened after DCP Deputy Party leader Cleophas Malala was blocked from accessing certain parts of the airport just as Gachagua was arriving.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua leaves JKIA after this arrival on August 21, 2025.
Photo credit: Francis Nderitu | Nation Media Group
However, more was to come that would turn what was meant to be a triumphant entry to a dramatic return, complete with tear gas.
As the the former DP left JKIA, surrounded by scores of his supporters, they ran into goons on Mombasa Road. They stoned Gachagua's convoy and also interrupted traffic flow on the busy highway.
Earlier, the mood at JKIA was that of excitement as Gachagua supporters gathered to welcome former Deputy President back.
Members of the DCP party are stationed outside the international arrivals section of JKIA, awaiting the arrival of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Photo credit: Francis Nderitu | Nation
Gachagua was coming from a six-week US visit, which he cut short ahead of several by-elections.
Security deployment outside JKIA airport upon the arrival of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Photo credit: Francis Nderitu | Nation
While Gachagua's allies have framed his return as a triumphant homecoming, some government officials had seen it as a looming security risk.
Heavy police deployment featuring anti-riot units lined the tarmac and entry points. Every vehicle and individual was subjected to heightened checks. Officers drawn in combat gear peered into boots, rifled through bags, and scanned faces with suspicion.
Despite this, hundreds of Gachagua supporters camped at the airport ahead of his arrival, insisting that they will not be cowed by threats from government.
"He is our leader and we are here to witness his comeback. We are also warning them that if they try any monkey game, we will not allow it at all," Martin Njagi, a resident of Murang’a, said.
Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja insisted that Gachagua would not receive special treatment.
“It is just a normal arrival. He will arrive like anyone else. Our role is to provide security and ensure safety for everyone. Those who break rules will be arrested,” Mr Kanja said on Wednesday at the National Police Leadership Academy in Ngong.
Malala had earlier urged Kenyans to flock to JKIA for what he called the “majestic walk of the king.”
He also dared Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen to attempt an arrest, boasting that over 300,000 supporters would shield Gachagua, and mocked state “threats” as hollow.
