Gachagua Reveals Plot To Arrest Him Before Leaving For US
Gachagua dared Ruto's allies to live up to their threats and order for his arrest.
Marvin Chege 
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has revealed that he was aware of a plot by President William Ruto's administration to arrest him at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), blocking him from travelling to the United States (US).
Speaking during a press conference on Wednesday, July 9, Gachagua dared Ruto's allies to live up to their threats and order for his arrest.
Gachagua, on June 29, announced plans for a two-month tour of the US to reconnect with Kenyans living abroad and encourage them to contribute to development back home.
"I have been threatened by people close to William Ruto who called some of my people today and said that they will want to stop me from leaving the country," Gachagua claimed.
Rigathi Gachagua (right) attending a church service at The Anglican Church of Kenya, Diocese of Nyahururu in Laikipia County on June 29, 2025. /RIGATHI GACHAGUA
"I have no problem. If you want to come and arrest me at the airport, as you were threatening us, you can go ahead. You cannot sell fear to us, and even if you sold it to us, we cannot buy it."
The former Deputy President asserted that regardless of whether he's barred from travelling to the U.S., he will continue to stand up for individuals he believes are being falsely accused of terrorism.
He added that the United Opposition has assembled a team of lawyers ready to defend those facing charges.
On July 8, the Director of Public Prosecutions formally filed terrorism charges against 37 Kenyans linked to acts of disruption, including the arson attack on the Kiambu Law Courts during the June 25 protests. Among them are two individuals closely associated with Gachagua.
On Wednesday, July 9, Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji—another Gachagua ally—also appeared in court to face similar terrorism charges, accused of financing groups involved in the Saba Saba Day protests.
Gachagua is preparing for a two-month tour of the US aimed at rallying diaspora support, marking his first international trip since his removal from office in October 2024.
Between July and August, he plans to visit multiple cities across Texas, California, Washington, Massachusetts, and Maryland.
As leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), Gachagua will use the trip to promote his new political outfit and court diaspora voters through town hall meetings and community events with Kenyans living abroad.
He also plans to meet with selected U.S. business leaders and investors, positioning the opposition as a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 general election.
