Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has arrived in the United States for a two-month tour aimed at engaging Kenyans in the diaspora and meeting with various international stakeholders.
Gachagua, who departed Kenya on the evening of Wednesday, July 9, 2025, was warmly received by enthusiastic supporters upon landing at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport in Washington on July 10. His wife, Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, is accompanying him on the trip.
“I arrived at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport in Washington to kick off my diaspora engagement with Kenyans in the USA. I was warmly welcomed by jubilant Kenyans here, and I am truly excited,” Gachagua shared in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Photos and videos from the airport showed Gachagua being welcomed with songs, dances, cheers, and flag-waving by his supporters.
“The love and support I received is unmatched,” he added.
The visit marks Gachagua’s first international trip since his removal from office in October 2024. During the tour, he is expected to hold town hall meetings and social forums in several cities, including Seattle, Dallas, Boston, Baltimore, and locations in California. These events will provide a platform for him to share his political message, listen to the concerns of the diaspora, and address pressing national issues.
While Gachagua has not officially declared a presidential bid for the 2027 General Election, he has publicly stated that he will not support President William Ruto’s re-election campaign.
On the night of his departure from Nairobi, Gachagua was seen off at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) by close allies, including Nyandarua Senator John Methu, Kirinyaga Woman Representative Jane Njeri Maina, former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, and several other political figures.
Sources familiar with his itinerary indicate that Gachagua will also hold meetings with U.S.-based investors who have expressed interest in engaging with Kenyan opposition leaders ahead of the 2027 elections.
Gachagua has framed the U.S. visit as part of a broader effort to reconnect with Kenyans abroad and keep them informed and involved in the country’s political and economic future.
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