Days after the burial of Raila Oginga, murmurs began to swirl across the country, with attention turning to who showed up and who didn’t.
Among the most conspicuous absentees was Democracy for Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua, a figure whose political moves are often closely scrutinized.
Breaking his silence, Gachagua clarified that his decision not to attend the burial in Bondo was neither an act of disrespect nor political signaling, but rather a matter of timing, security considerations and what he termed as “avoiding unnecessary political theatrics.”
According to him, such high-profile events often attract charged political undercurrents that can easily shift focus away from mourning to rivalry.
He further explained that out of respect for the family of Raila Odinga, he chose to keep a distance rather than risk creating a distraction.
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Gachagua noted that his presence could have been misinterpreted or even politicized, given the current tensions and shifting alliances within Kenya’s political landscape.
On why he has yet to visit Bondo, Gachagua maintained that he prefers a more private and less publicized visit.
He emphasized that condolence visits should not be turned into political rallies, hinting that he will make the trip at a more appropriate time when emotions have settled and the environment is calmer.
The former Deputy President also took the opportunity to dismiss critics who have framed his absence as a snub to the Odinga family or the Luo community.
He reiterated his respect for the late Raila Odinga and her family, adding that leadership requires making decisions that may not always be popular but are, in his view, necessary.
His remarks come at a time when political temperatures remain high, with alliances being tested and redefined ahead of future contests.
Analysts suggest that even seemingly personal decisions such as attending or skipping a burial can carry significant political weight in Kenya’s deeply interconnected social and political fabric.
As the dust settles, attention now shifts to whether Gachagua will follow through on his promise to visit Bondo and how that visit, when it happens, will be received by both supporters and critics alike.
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