Gachagua Explains Absence from Raila Odinga’s Funeral, Cites Security Threats and Respect for Family Traditions

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has finally broken his silence on why he did not attend the funeral and burial of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, shedding light on what he describes as serious security concerns and a desire to preserve national unity.

Speaking during an interview on Ramogi TV, Gachagua revealed that he had initially planned to attend the State funeral held at Nyayo National Stadium as well as the burial in Bondo. 

However, intelligence reports warning of possible attacks forced him to reconsider.

According to the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader, there were alleged plans to use violence against him as a way of triggering ethnic tensions between communities. 

He noted that such an incident during a solemn national event could have escalated into a larger conflict.

Gachagua stated that he chose to stay away after carefully weighing the potential consequences, emphasizing that the funeral was a significant moment for Odinga’s family and supporters. 

He said attending under such circumstances would have risked disrupting the occasion and overshadowing its importance.

The former deputy president further claimed that similar threats existed regarding the burial ceremony in Bondo, warning that any attack on him there could have been misinterpreted and led to unnecessary hostility between communities. 

He maintained that his decision was guided by both personal safety and a broader responsibility to maintain peace.

Despite his absence, Gachagua insisted that he holds no ill will toward the people of the Nyanza region. 

He recalled previous visits where he said he received a warm welcome, highlighting what he described as mutual respect between him and local residents.

On his delayed visit to the Odinga family in Bondo, Gachagua explained that he had already reached out to Ida Odinga to offer condolences. 

He added that he is awaiting an appropriate time to visit, in line with family wishes and cultural expectations.

He emphasized the importance of respecting traditions, noting that one cannot visit a grieving family without invitation. According to him, patience and respect remain key as he waits for the family’s readiness.

Gachagua concluded by reiterating that his decisions were made in good faith, aimed at avoiding unnecessary tension and honoring both the late leader and the unity of the nation.