“All the Flights I Paid for Were Cancelled” – Gachagua Misses Kakamega Rally, Accuses Ruto Government of Blocking Travel

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua missed a major rally in Kakamega on Friday, December 5. He was expected in Kisa East to celebrate Aduda Okwiri’s by-election victory. Supporters waited for hours. Former Senator Cleophas Malala later explained why Gachagua did not appear.

Malala said multiple travel plans collapsed at the last minute. He claimed government interference blocked Gachagua’s flights. “They went and threatened the owner of the chopper company. The chopper then refused to take Gachagua,” he said. A second helicopter was declared “faulty,” forcing a refund. Gachagua tried a commercial flight to Kisumu. The airline said the route was too busy due to several high-profile funerals.

The party arranged an alternative landing at Matulo airstrip in Webuye. Vehicles were waiting to receive Gachagua. But the airstrip was closed. By the time the rally began, it was clear he would not arrive. Police from neighboring sub-counties were reportedly stationed in Khwisero, anticipating his arrival.

Gachagua addressed supporters by phone through Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa. He apologized for missing the rally. “My people, greetings. Are you well, cousins? I wanted to come there but I had travel problems. All the flights I had paid for were cancelled, and the money was refunded but it’s alright,” he told the crowd.

The incident drew reactions from other political leaders. COTU boss Francis Atwoli dismissed claims that the by-election indicated a blow to his influence. The drama highlighted travel hurdles and raised questions about government interference. Supporters and observers are now closely watching political developments in Western Kenya.