Gachagua explains absence From Raila’s anniversary as chaos mar Bondo commemoration
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has explained his absence from the first anniversary commemoration of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, saying a pre-arranged programme in the United States prevented him from attending the event in Bondo, Siaya County.
In a statement posted on X, Gachagua said Raila’s widow, Ida Odinga, had personally invited him to the ceremony held on Thursday, October 15, but he was unable to travel back to Kenya because of prior commitments.
“I was not able to attend since I am away in the United States of America on a programme that was pre-planned,” Gachagua said, thanking Ida for the invitation.
The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader also reaffirmed his admiration for Raila, recalling remarks he made about the former Prime Minister and Ida during his inauguration as a candidate for the African Union Commission chairperson position.
“Those words about Raila and Mama Ida came from my heart and I meant every word that I said on the day,” he said.
Gachagua praised Raila’s political legacy, particularly his role in building a strong political party and promoting the election of quality legislators, saying he hoped to emulate the example as he builds DCP into a formidable political movement.
Meanwhile, the anniversary commemorations at Migwena Cultural and Sports Ground were marred by chaos, clashes among youths and heightened political rivalries, disrupting an occasion intended to honour the late opposition leader.
Thousands of mourners, ODM supporters, political leaders and members of the Odinga family had gathered at the venue, which has longstanding cultural and historical links to the family.
The disruptions overshadowed the remembrance activities, despite appeals by Ida for political leaders to set aside their differences and allow the occasion to focus on her husband’s life and legacy.
Raila died on October 15, 2025, aged 80, while receiving medical treatment in India. His death triggered nationwide mourning before he was buried at his family home in Bondo.
The anniversary programme also included intergenerational dialogue sessions in Kisumu and candle-lighting events celebrating Raila’s contribution to Kenya’s political history.
