Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was warmly received by jubilant residents in Ol Jorok, Nyandarua County, on Sunday, April 27, during his visit to Boiman Ol Joro-Orok Catholic Church. His motorcade was met with chants, songs, and dance, as locals eagerly greeted him along the main road, signaling his continued political influence in the region.
The atmosphere was festive, with women and young people leading the celebrations, singing and dancing as they escorted Gachagua to the church. The motorcade, unable to proceed due to the enthusiastic crowd, was forced to stop, prompting Gachagua to step out of his vehicle and walk nearly half a kilometre to the church amidst the cheers of his supporters.
This visit marked Gachagua’s first church appearance since the April 8 attack at Mwiki, where his life was allegedly threatened. The warm reception he received in Nyandarua is indicative of his solid support base in the Mt. Kenya region, despite his ouster from the Deputy President’s office in October 2024. His influence appears to be steadily growing, especially in his strongholds like Nyandarua, where local leaders such as Senator John Methu remain loyal allies.
Later that evening, Gachagua was scheduled to give an interview on Weru Television, where he planned to discuss national issues, the country’s future, and his views on the progress of Kenyans. He had previously spoken out on KTN in early April, making serious allegations against the government.
Following the Mwiki incident, Gachagua wrote to the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, expressing concerns for his safety after a series of attacks on his political meetings and church events in areas such as Kiambu and Naivasha. Despite these challenges, Gachagua’s popularity in his home region remains strong, cementing his role as a significant political figure in the Mt Kenya region.
