Gachagua Claims He Skipped Raila’s Funeral Over Assassination Plot

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua now says he skipped Raila Odinga’s State Funeral and burial because of an alleged assassination plot.

Gachagua said he had planned to attend the funeral at Nyayo Stadium and later travel to Bondo. He claims that intelligence reports warned him of a planned attack by officers posing as civilians.

He said police officers privately advised him to stay away for his own safety.

Gachagua claimed the plan aimed to create the impression that Nyanza residents (Luo community) had attacked him.

He added that a senior Interior Ministry official allegedly pushed a similar plan when he considered travelling to Bondo.

Gachagua said the aim was to spark hostility between communities.

Despite the concerns, he announced that he will visit Raila’s Bondo home in early December.

He said he has consulted the Odinga’s family and elders from Mount Kenya. According to him, both sides have agreed on the December visit.

Gachagua said he will lead elders, clergy, and local leaders to offer condolences to the Odinga family.

He said the visit will also seek to strengthen ties between the two regions.

Gachagua noted that his past disagreements with Raila were political rather than personal.

He also claimed he has already spoken with Winnie Odinga to confirm his planned visit.

Gachagua accused President William Ruto and some officials of showing “false affection” for Raila during the funeral.

He said only Kalonzo Musyoka spoke honestly about Raila.

Gachagua praised Raila’s political influence and said he wants to build his DCP party to similar strength as Raila’s ODM.