ODM Warns Rigathi Gachagua against Visiting Bondo after Mutahi Kahiga’s Controversial Remarks
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The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has issued a strong warning to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, advising him against visiting Bondo in Siaya County, the hometown of the late opposition leader Raila Odinga. The party’s reaction follows recent remarks by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, which ODM leaders have condemned as divisive, insensitive, and disrespectful during the national mourning period.
Why Did ODM Warn Gachagua?
Speaking to reporters in Kisumu on Wednesday, ODM Kisumu Deputy Chairperson Seth Kanga, who also serves as the Assembly Whip, stated that Gachagua’s planned visit to the Nyanza region would not be welcomed.
“We heard that Gachagua and his team plan to visit the home of our party leader, the late Raila Odinga. We are urging him, please, don’t step in Bondo,” Kanga said firmly.
The warning comes in the wake of a viral video showing Governor Mutahi Kahiga making controversial remarks during a burial in Nyeri. In the clip, delivered in Kikuyu, Kahiga appeared to imply that Raila’s passing was “God’s plan” that had “levelled the political playing field.” His comments, perceived as celebrating the former Prime Minister’s death, quickly drew nationwide outrage.
ODM leaders accused Kahiga of mocking Raila’s legacy and using his death for political gain. Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, who also serves as ODM Chairperson, described the remarks as “primitive, insensitive, and deeply insulting.”
In a strongly worded statement, she said, “Kahiga’s remarks amounted to mocking the memory of a national leader who dedicated his life to democracy and unity. This country deserves leaders who embody empathy and respect, not divisive rhetoric. Kahiga must go.”
How Did Leaders Respond to the Backlash?
The Council of Governors (CoG), through its chairperson, Ahmed Abdullahi, distanced itself from Kahiga’s sentiments, clarifying that they were his personal opinions and not representative of the Council.
“We condemn these utterances, which were both untimely and unacceptable, especially during a period when Kenyans are mourning,” Abdullahi said in a Wednesday statement.
Following the backlash and growing public pressure, Governor Kahiga issued an apology and resigned from his role as Vice Chairperson of the CoG. His exit came as ODM leaders intensified calls for accountability and respect for Raila’s legacy.
By Lucky Anyanje
