Tension as DCP supporters clash with police as Gachagua returns
By Aloys Michael, August 21, 2025Tensions flared at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) as supporters and leaders of the Democratic for Citizens Party (DCP) clashed with police during the arrival of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from his tour of the United States.
Hundreds of DCP supporters thronged Terminal 1A on Thursday, August 21, 2025, waving placards and chanting pro-Gachagua slogans in a show of loyalty to the Democracy for Citizens (DCP) Party leader.
The gathering, which began as a peaceful reception, quickly descended into chaos as police moved in to disperse the crowd, citing security risks and the absence of a legally sanctioned permit for the public assembly.
A standoff ensued between officers and the crowd, resulting in a tense push-and-pull scenario. Police formed barricades to prevent the supporters from accessing the arrival terminal, while DCP leaders attempted to push through with their procession.
The situation caused brief disruptions at the airport, drawing attention from travellers and passersby.
Supporters were seen engaging police in verbal altercations, with pockets of shoving and resistance as officers tried to maintain control.
The dramatic scenes come amid growing political tension within the ruling coalition, where Gachagua and his allies in the DCP have been increasingly vocal in their criticism of the current administration.
The reception is viewed by many as a signal of Gachagua’s rising political momentum and his potential positioning ahead of the 2027 general election.
His US tour, which included meetings with diaspora communities and business groups, has sparked speculation over possible realignments in the national political landscape. Within DCP circles, the tour has been hailed as a strategic move to consolidate support beyond his traditional Mount Kenya base.
The confrontation at JKIA marks yet another flashpoint in the widening rift between pro-Gachagua factions and state institutions. DCP leaders have since vowed to escalate their political activities, accusing the government of using security agencies to suppress opposition voices.
Gachagua cut short his US tour in order to join his DCP party to plan and beef up ahead of the upcoming by-elections. The factions and the ruling coalition will test their muscles ahead of the 2027 polls.