09/08/2025
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s political tours are becoming less about public service and more about personal profit. Fresh revelations from members of the DCP diaspora chapters indicate that Gachagua is now demanding $10,000 (Kshs. 1.3 Million) upfront before agreeing to grace the opening of any party office abroad. This “appearance fee” has to be paid in full in advance — no money, no Gachagua.
For a man who claims to be building grassroots connections and uniting Kenyans abroad, this practice is not only shameful but downright exploitative. The diaspora community, already contributing financially and logistically to make his party visible in foreign countries, is now being milked for cash just to host him. His visits are being turned into high-priced spectacles instead of genuine engagements with supporters.
The results of this money-first mentality are already visible. Many of the DCP offices that Gachagua opened in the diaspora have since shut down. The reason is simple — the local entrepreneurs and chapter leaders who organized the launches were unable to recover the massive costs they incurred. Attendance at such events became more about paying for Gachagua’s presence than creating a sustainable political network. Once the fanfare faded, there was no follow-up, no real party activity, and no return on investment for those who had poured in their savings.
This is the hallmark of a leader who sees politics as a cash cow rather than a calling. Instead of empowering his diaspora supporters, Gachagua is pricing them out, leaving them with debts and abandoned offices. The diaspora deserves leaders who will serve them without turning every handshake into a business transaction. Sadly, Gachagua’s message is clear: if you can’t pay, you don’t matter.
Oscar Kipchumba Sudi
Martha JM Miano
Hon Dr. Kipkurui S. Chepkwony, MBS
Gen Chepkuley