The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has issued a stern warning to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, cautioning him against visiting Bondo in Siaya County the hometown of the late opposition leader Raila Odinga.
The warning comes in the wake of controversial remarks made by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, which ODM leaders have condemned as divisive and disrespectful, especially during the nation’s mourning period.
Speaking to journalists in Kisumu on Wednesday, ODM Kisumu Deputy Chairperson Seth Kanga said the party would not welcome Gachagua’s planned visit to Nyanza, citing “unfriendly sentiments” expressed by his allies.
“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,” said Kanga.
The remarks follow a viral video of Governor Kahiga suggesting that political dynamics in government had shifted in favor of the Nyanza region following President William Ruto’s renewed working relationship with Raila Odinga. In the clip, delivered in Kikuyu during a burial ceremony in Nyeri, Kahiga appeared to imply that Raila’s death was “God’s plan” and had “levelled the political playing field.”
The comments triggered public outrage, with ODM Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga terming them “primitive, insensitive, and deeply insulting.” Wanga demanded Kahiga’s resignation as Vice Chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG), saying his remarks mocked the legacy of a leader who championed democracy and unity.
Council of Governors Chair Ahmed Abdullahi distanced the body from Kahiga’s statements, saying they were personal views that did not reflect the CoG’s position.
Facing growing criticism, Kahiga later issued an apology and stepped down from his CoG leadership role.
