Ngunjiri Wambugu Sneers at Rigathi Gachagua's Homecoming from US: "Arudi Akuje Tena"
- Rigathi Gachagua's highly anticipated homecoming drew fewer supporters than expected, sparking ridicule and questions over the event’s organisation
- Former Nyeri Town MP Ngunjiri Wambugu highlighted alleged failures in the event's mismanagement
- Wambugu appealed to the party's leadership with areas of concern after photos of the former DP appearing squeezed went viral
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Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features for digital and print media.
Former Nyeri Town MP Ngunjiri Wambugu has ridiculed Democracy for Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua’s homecoming, arguing that it fell short of the hype created by his allies.
Source: Facebook
Gachagua, who cut short his US tour ahead of the November 27 by-elections, arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday, August 21, where he was received by a section of his supporters.
Chants of his name mingled with 'Wantam' songs, signaling a mission to limit President William Ruto to a single term.
He later proceeded to Kamukunji Grounds in the company of DCP leaders, including deputy party leader Cleophas Malala.
What did Wambugu say about Gachagua's homecoming?
Wambugu claimed that DCP leaders had overhyped the reception, only for the turnout to be smaller than anticipated.
He likened the scenes at JKIA to poor crowd management, suggesting that the event lacked the grandeur expected for a political figure of Gachagua’s stature.
"Are you guys saying he goes back and comes back afresh? You guys, please be nice. They have tried their best. Plus, they have never done this before. I am sure they will do better next time.
I hope he wasn’t pick-pocketed! How come no one was willing to spend a little money to get proper crowd control security? Guys, after asking the whole country to come to the airport," he said.
Source: Facebook
Did Wambugu mock Gachagua's homecoming event?
The former legislator went on to mock the organisation of the homecoming, saying Gachagua—who had reportedly been under the protection of the US Secret Service during his tour—was left appearing as though he was struggling to make his way through the crowd.
Wambugu further advised DCP leaders to plan better in future, including investing in crowd control, posters, and banners to create stronger optics.
"Let me advise you my former colleagues. Next time Gachagua is coming back, make posters and banners to welcome him for optics and avoid pictures of him being squeezed when alighting. Now the kingpin, who was being protected by the American Secret Service abroad, is being pushed around like he’s trying to get into a matatu at rush hour!" he added.
He added that aspirants who camped at the airport overnight to welcome Gachagua should be prioritised in party nominations over those who stayed away.
Source: Facebook
How did Gachagua escape arrest at JKIA?
Meanwhile, DCP leaders alleged that at least 100 police officers had been deployed at JKIA to arrest former Gachagua upon arrival.
According to them, his supporters intervened and blocked the attempt, enabling him to proceed home safely.
Nyandarua senator John Methu maintained that the supporters’ vigilance thwarted the alleged plan, while Malala echoed the claims, stressing that they remained alert to prevent Gachagua’s apprehension and accused the government of undermining human rights.
Proofreading by Jackson Otukho, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
