Tension and drama unfolded on Mombasa Road on Thursday, August 21, 2025, when Deputy President-turned-Democracy for Citizens Party leader, Rigathi Gachagua, faced a hostile reception during his highly publicized homecoming. His convoy was temporarily halted after rival youth groups engaged in a violent confrontation, hurling stones and barricading the busy highway.
Violent Clashes Disrupt Gachagua’s Return from JKIA
The chaos erupted around Cabanas, near the Airport North Road linkages, just minutes after Gachagua left the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). According to eyewitness accounts, groups of youths on motorbikes arrived in droves and began pelting stones at each other and at vehicles within Gachagua’s motorcade.
Videos circulating on social media show shattered windscreens, panicked motorists, and youths blocking traffic with massive rocks, forcing the DP’s convoy to slow down. Traffic along the usually busy Mombasa Road was brought to a standstill, paralyzing movement for several minutes.
Gachagua Retreats Amid Escalating Tension
At one point, the embattled leader was forced to retreat inside his vehicle after initially waving at supporters from the sunroof. Earlier, Gachagua had briefly emerged from the roof of his car at JKIA, but security officials advised him to step back inside due to rising tension.
Despite a heavy police deployment in the area, security officers were initially slow to contain the violence. Moments later, however, police were seen attempting to disperse the goons and block advancing motorbikes believed to be ferrying rival factions of youth.
Political Undertones Behind the Clash
The incident has raised questions about the growing political hostility surrounding Rigathi Gachagua’s return and the bitter rivalry between his supporters and opponents. Analysts suggest the violent reception may signal deep divisions within Kenya’s political landscape, as Gachagua seeks to reposition himself through his new party.
The DP was scheduled to address a major rally in Kamukunji, but the confrontation significantly delayed his plans. Whether the chaos was a spontaneous outburst or a coordinated attempt to disrupt his comeback remains unclear, though investigators are expected to review CCTV footage and online videos as part of their probe.
Mombasa Road Paralysis Sparks Public Outrage
Kenyans on social media expressed outrage at the violent scenes, with many criticizing political leaders for using youth as foot soldiers in political battles. The roadblock and stone-throwing also inconvenienced hundreds of ordinary commuters, some of whom shared videos of themselves caught in the mayhem.
