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Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has clarified why he skipped both the State funeral of Raila Odinga at Nyayo National Stadium and the burial in Bondo, citing security threats.
Speaking in an interview on Ramogi TV on Wednesday evening, the Democracy for Citizens Party leader said he received intelligence reports warning of possible attacks targeting him at both events.
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Gachagua noted that he had initially intended to attend the Nairobi funeral but changed his plans after learning that groups had allegedly been mobilised to confront him.
“I had planned to attend the service at Nyayo Stadium, but information reached me that goons had been organised to attack me, potentially sparking conflict between the Luo and Kikuyu communities,” he said.
He explained that he chose to stay away to preserve the dignity of the occasion.
“As a seasoned politician and strategist, I realised the event was deeply significant for Raila Odinga and his supporters, and my presence could have caused unnecessary disruption,” he added.
The former DP said he also cancelled plans to travel to Bondo after receiving similar warnings of a possible physical attack aimed at fuelling ethnic tensions.
“I was informed there were plans to attack me in Bondo as a way of creating division between the Luo and Kikuyu communities,” he claimed.
He warned that such an incident could have escalated into broader conflict, noting it might have strained relations between the two groups.
Gachagua further alleged that past incidents involving him in areas such as Kariobangi, Mwiki and near the airport were orchestrated by political rivals.
Despite the concerns, he maintained that he enjoys support in the Nyanza region, recalling a previous visit with President William Ruto where he received a warm welcome in counties including Migori, Homa Bay, Siaya and Kisumu.
He reiterated that his decision to stay away from both the funeral and burial was meant to avoid any disruption during a critical moment for Odinga’s family and supporters.
Addressing why he has not visited Odinga’s Bondo home months after the burial, Gachagua said he had already conveyed his condolences to Ida Odinga and requested to visit but was advised to wait.
He added that he is still awaiting communication from the family, stressing that he respects cultural traditions and would not visit without an invitation.
