Gachagua’s homecoming was poorly timed, says political commentator

Political commentator Titus Mutai has faulted former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s recent homecoming from the United States, calling it a poorly calculated political move that failed to capture the attention it was meant to.

Speaking during the People’s Breakfast Show on Radio Generation Monday morning, Mutai said the event was staged to send a political message but ended up falling flat because of timing and poor mobilization.

“His homecoming was miscalculated and lacked a sense of occasion since his time as a deputy president. Kenyans were busy following the CHAN games, meaning the political show didn’t get the kind of focus it was supposed to. Even the mobilization on the ground was off,” Mutai observed.

The analyst argued that Gachagua may have intended to showcase strength and relevance, but the spectacle was overshadowed by other national interests, making it appear less impactful than his team had hoped.

Mutai further said the former DP has yet to clearly define his political game, noting that many of those rallying behind him are drawn more by the hype than by solid political conviction.

“Most of the people cheering him on are doing it because of fame, not real support. Yes, he has given some people hope, but without a clear agenda and proper timing, that hope won’t last,” Mutai explained.

Gachagua’s return from the U.S. attracted crowds and was presented by his allies as a show of political muscle.

However, Mutai said optics alone cannot sustain a leader in Kenya’s competitive politics. He warned that political events need to be tied to a bigger vision and not just dramatic welcomes.

“Kenyan politics is not just about big arrivals and shouting matches. It’s about structures, strategy and consistency. If Gachagua keeps relying on public shows without a clear plan, he risks losing his grip,” he said.

Mutai also questioned the sincerity of some of Gachagua’s allies, saying a number of them appear motivated by personal interests rather than loyalty. Without a stable and committed base, he added, the former DP could easily find himself politically exposed.

His comments come at a time when Gachagua is seeking to reassert himself after his fallout with President William Ruto. While some of his supporters believe he represents fairness and a voice for inclusivity, critics argue that his politics lack structure and clarity.

Mutai’s take reflects a growing debate on whether Gachagua’s popularity can translate into lasting political clout, or whether it is just a wave of temporary excitement.