City lawyer Wahome Thuku has weighed in on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s trip to the United Kingdom, raising questions about the role of ordinary supporters in political campaigns beyond voting.
Gachagua, who leads the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), is in the UK to mobilise financial support from Kenyans in the diaspora. He has said he is targeting to raise KSh1 billion for party nominations and about KSh2 billion for the 2027 General Election.
In his remarks, Thuku acknowledged that fundraising for political parties is common across the world, but used Gachagua’s trip to question the level of participation among local supporters.
“He is in the UK to raise funds for DCP… targeting KSh1 billion for nominations. The party will need KSh2 billion for the elections,” Thuku said, before posing a direct question to Kenyans on what they are doing to support their preferred candidates beyond voting.
Thuku said diaspora fundraising reflects a contrast between Kenyans abroad and those at home, noting that those in the UK are willing to contribute financially despite working under demanding conditions.
“Money from who? Money from Kenyans… those who soil their hands in London and other cities to earn pounds,” he said.
He questioned whether supporters within Kenya—across parties such as UDA, Jubilee and Wiper—are making similar contributions or are limiting their role to voting during elections.
According to Thuku, voting should be seen as the minimum contribution in a democratic process.
He pointed out that supporters can play different roles, including donating money, offering professional services, attending rallies, and amplifying campaign messages.
“Some supporters contribute funds. Others contribute services. Others support by turning up for rallies… and they will still vote,” he said.
He also addressed reactions to his own political commentary, noting that some people interpret active engagement as endorsement of specific candidates.
“All those comments tell me that I am doing something else other than waiting to vote. Remember I will also vote,” he added.
His remarks come as political activity begins to gather pace ahead of the 2027 General Election, with leaders increasingly engaging the diaspora for financial and strategic support.
Gachagua’s UK visit is part of a wider effort to build networks and mobilise resources for DCP. He is also expected to travel to the United States for similar engagements.
Thuku’s comments shift attention to Kenyan voters, urging them to reflect on their role in the political process.
“Voting is the bare minimum. What else?” he posed.