Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua’s tour in the United States has caused a lot of talk online after videos showed him moving around in what appears to be a presidential-style motorcade.
Gachagua, who now leads the Democracy for Citizens Party, is on a two-month visit meant to meet Kenyans living in the diaspora and prepare the ground for his 2027 election plans.
The clips circulating on social media show a line of high-end vehicles, flashing lights, and uniformed personnel, prompting many people to say that the motorcade looks like that of a sitting head of state.
Some people have gone as far as claiming that the U.S. government may be giving him special treatment, but there has been no official statement to confirm this.
Gachagua’s visit comes months after he was pushed out of his deputy president role in October 2024 following a bitter fallout with President William Ruto.
Since then, he has been openly critical of Ruto’s administration. During his U.S. tour, Gachagua has made some strong allegations. He said that more than forty National Intelligence Service officers have been sent to track his movements.
He also warned that some of these officers could be planning to harm him. So far, none of these claims have been proven, and there is no official evidence to support them.
According to political experts, Gachagua’s security while abroad is most likely privately arranged or offered as part of the basic protection given to former high-ranking officials.
There is nothing concrete showing that either the Kenyan or U.S. government is providing him with presidential-level treatment.
However, his supporters have praised his trip, calling it a brave move to defy the Ruto administration and connect with Kenyans abroad. On the other hand, critics say the trip could be an excuse to avoid political pressure and legal trouble in Kenya.
Gachagua’s activities in the U.S. are keeping him in the public eye. The motorcade debate has become a major talking point, showing how fast political discussions can be influenced by online claims and unverified information.
Whether the convoy is a result of private security or something more, the discussion has given Gachagua a fresh spotlight as he works to build support ahead of the next election.
