Martha Karua clarifies reasons for travelling to the USA

People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua has clarified the reasons for travelling to the United States of America.
Taking to her official X account on Monday, July 14, 2025, Karua said that she was invited as a chief guest at the edition of the Kikuyu cultural festival dubbed Ngemi Cia Ruraya, which was held in Seattle.
She added that the former Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, who was also in attendance, was invited separately, adding that they did not travel together.
“Incorrect, I am here as Ngemi festival’s chief guest, while @rigathi, my brother, was invited separately and is accompanied by @dorcasrigathi_ . We are attending the same event, each travelling separately,” she clarified.
Karua officially opened the first edition of the Ngemi Cia Ruraya on July 12, 2025. During her opening speech, she rallied Kenyans in the diaspora to embrace unity and demand transformative leadership back home.
“First of all, looking at me, you can see what colour I am wearing—purple. It is the colour of hope. We need unity, and we need to correct the direction we are heading in. Kenya cannot stay the way it is—it needs better managers,” Karua said.

Ngemi Cia Ruraya
Ngemi Cia Ruraya is a cultural and political gathering that brings together members of the Kikuyu diaspora community, particularly those living in the United States, to celebrate their heritage, foster unity, and discuss matters affecting their homeland.
The event features traditional music, dance, keynote speeches, and panel discussions, serving as both a cultural showcase and a forum for civic engagement among Kenyans abroad.
It was hosted at Saghalie Middle School in Seattle and drew hundreds of Kenyans from the diaspora, particularly members of the Kikuyu community living in various parts of the United States.

The event’s main host was popular Kameme FM presenter Muthoni wa Kirumba, who kept the crowd engaged throughout the programme.
Attendees were also treated to performances from celebrated artistes, including mugithi star Samidoh, who had already arrived in Seattle ahead of the event and met both Karua and Gachagua during their second day in the country.
Held in vibrant cities such as Seattle, Ngemi Cia Ruraya also provides a platform for political leaders, artistes, and community influencers to connect with the diaspora and rally support for various national causes.
Karua was the first speaker to address the gathering before ushering in Rigathi Gachagua.

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