Supporters of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have flooded the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Nairobi, ahead of his expected arrival in the afternoon.

According to Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) deputy leader Cleophas Malala, Gachagua, his wife Dorcas and their delegation are scheduled to land any time from noon. 

Malala said the former DP would then lead a peaceful procession into Nairobi’s Central Business District, making stopovers to address supporters before holding a rally at Kamukunji Grounds, a venue long associated with ODM leader Raila Odinga.

Earlier this week, DCP leaders alleged a plot to arrest Gachagua over remarks he made during diaspora town hall meetings, including claims linking President William Ruto to extremist groups such as al-Shabaab and Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces.

Anti-riot police dropped at terminal 1B (International arrivals) at JKIA

Video: Geff Kirui pic.twitter.com/PuA3wlFmXH

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Despite initial fears of clashes, supporters at JKIA have reported no obstacles accessing the airport. 

Anti-riot police are, however, deployed in line with Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen’s pledge that security agencies were prepared for Gachagua’s return.

“We have not had any altercations with the police so far. We come in peace. If the police don’t engage us, the day will end well. If Murkomen loves this country, he should tell his police to step back because we are peaceful,” said Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu.

Across the country, Gachagua’s supporters are waiting with bated breath.  

“As a young person, I am happy that Rigathi Gachagua is coming back. Since he left, we don’t know whether we are being stolen from or everything is fine,” said Opiso Austin.

Calm in CBD

Meanwhile, Nairobi’s Central Business District is calm, at the time of publication.

Businesses remain open, traffic flowing smoothly, and there is no visible police presence.

Additional reporting by James Wanzala