The absence of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from the State Funeral of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga has raised eyebrows across the country. While leaders from both sides of the political divide gathered at Nyayo National Stadium to honour Raila, Gachagua’s no-show did not go unnoticed.
Among those in attendance were prominent United Opposition leaders including Kalonzo Musyoka, Fred Matiang’i, Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, and Justin Muturi, whose presence symbolised unity in mourning a man regarded as a towering figure in Kenya’s political and democratic history.
Despite skipping the memorial, Gachagua paid a moving tribute to Raila via his X account on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, describing him as “the father of Kenya’s democracy” and a “formidable hero of Africa’s second liberation.”
“You stood tall and strong in intellect, knowledge, and the quest for democracy. You faced brutal regimes and were tortured, jailed, abducted, and detained severally for Kenya,” Gachagua wrote.
The former Deputy President lauded Raila’s courage, resilience, and lifelong dedication to public service from his early years as a lecturer and civil servant to his decades-long career as a Cabinet Minister, Prime Minister, and Opposition Leader.
Gachagua concluded his message by noting that Raila’s legacy would forever be remembered in the annals of Africa’s Pan-African history, calling him “the indefatigable lion of Africa.”
President William Ruto made the final entrance at the stadium, following state protocol, marking the official commencement of the memorial service. While reasons for Gachagua’s absence remain unclear, his emotional message underscored a deep respect for Raila’s contributions to Kenya’s democratic journey—even amid political differences.
