Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua took his signature ‘wantam’ slogan to the valleys of Washington State during his ongoing U.S. tour, drawing a spirited response from Kenyan diaspora attendees.
Speaking at the inaugural Ngemi Cia Ruraya cultural festival in Seattle, Gachagua energized the crowd with his rallying cry.
“Hapa America mnasemaje?” he asked the jubilant audience, which roared back, “wantam!” a chant now widely recognized as a symbol of defiance against President William Ruto’s regime.
Gachagua was joined by People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua, with both leaders using the platform to criticize the current administration.
“Mimi ninasema, no term! Ni kwa sababu, how many more must die so that Ruto finishes one term?” Karua posed to the crowd.
The duo addressed a large gathering at Saghalie Park, where the atmosphere was festive and culturally rich.
Gachagua was also in the company of his wife Pastor Dorcas Rigathi.
The event drew hundreds eager to reconnect with their heritage through music, food, and traditional performances.
In one video, attendees could be seen waving their phone flashlights in unison, recording a live band performing on a strikingly decorated stage.
Mugithi star Samidoh and Kameme FM presenter Muthoni Wa Kirumba, popularly known as Baby Top, delivered electrifying performances that had the crowd on its feet, dancing and singing along.
First Edition, Ngemi Cia Ruraya at Saghalie Park, Seattle Washington USA pic.twitter.com/pDlrCCqg5v — Coletta Aluda (@Colettaaluda_1) July 13, 2025
Founded last year, the Ngemi Festival has held several editions within Kenya to celebrate the Gikuyu culture, growing into a vibrant platform for cultural expression and community identity. Festivalgoers enjoy a blend of music, art, storytelling, and traditional cuisine—an immersive experience that has seen attendance grow steadily.
This marked the festival’s first edition outside Kenya, and the presence of Gachagua and Karua added a political and emotional dimension, drawing attendees from across the United States.
Gachagua departed Kenya on Wednesday night for his U.S. tour.
Upon arrival, he was received warmly by supporters who welcomed him with chants, songs, and dance.
“The love and support I received is unmatched,” he said.
During his tour, the DCP party leader is expected to visit Dallas, California, Seattle, Boston, and Baltimore, where he will host town hall meetings and attend social events to engage with the diaspora and promote his agenda.
