Rigathi Gachagua attributed his absence from Raila’s anniversary commemorations to a scheduled US programme.
The former Deputy President says a scheduled programme in the United States prevented him from accepting Ida Odinga’s invitation.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua explains his absence from Raila Odinga’s first-anniversary commemorations, citing a previously scheduled programme in the United States.
In a statement marking the anniversary, Gachagua said Raila’s widow, Ida Odinga, had invited him to attend. However, his earlier commitment meant he could not join the family and other leaders for the occasion.
Gachagua explains absence and thanks Ida
Gachagua thanked Ida for inviting him to celebrate the former Prime Minister’s life and legacy. He also said his absence should not suggest that he lacked appreciation for Raila.
Instead, the former Deputy President paid tribute to Raila’s contribution to democracy and the protection of citizens’ rights. He described the late leader as the father of Kenya’s democracy.
Gachagua also revisited his earlier praise for Raila during the former Prime Minister’s campaign for the African Union Commission chairperson position. He said those remarks reflected his genuine admiration, rather than sentiments expressed only for that occasion.
His words about both Raila and Ida, he added, had come from the heart.
Raila’s party-building legacy and DCP
Beyond the tribute, Gachagua highlighted Raila’s approach to political organisation as an example he hoped to follow. He praised Raila’s ability to build a strong party and encourage supporters to elect quality legislators.
Gachagua said he wanted to emulate that approach while developing the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP). His aim, he said, was to build DCP into a formidable political movement.
The anniversary statement therefore combined his explanation for missing the commemorations with recognition of Raila’s political influence. It also linked that legacy to Gachagua’s ambitions for his own party.
