Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has revealed that a pre-planned itinerary in the United States prevented him from attending the first anniversary commemoration of the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
In a statement shared on the social media platform X, Gachagua disclosed that Raila’s widow, Ida Odinga, had personally invited him to the memorial event held in Bondo, Siaya County. He expressed his gratitude to Mama Ida, explaining that his absence was strictly due to the pre-existing overseas commitment.
“I was not able to attend since I am away in the United States of America on a programme that was pre-planned,” Gachagua stated.
Gachagua also referenced the remarks he previously made during Raila’s inauguration as a candidate for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson, emphasizing that his praise for the late opposition leader was deeply genuine.
“Those words about Raila and Mama Ida came from my heart and I meant every word that I said on the day,” he affirmed.
The former Deputy President noted that he deeply admired Raila’s political legacy, particularly his historic success in building formidable political parties and nurturing high-quality legislative leaders. Gachagua added that he aims to emulate this blueprint as he works to establish the Democracy for the Citizens Party into a powerful national political movement.
Thousands of Kenyans gathered at the Migwena Cultural and Sports Ground in Bondo, Siaya County, on Thursday, October 15, 2026, to mark exactly one year since the veteran politician’s passing.
Raila Odinga passed away at the age of 80 on October 15, 2025, while undergoing medical treatment in India. His passing triggered nationwide mourning ahead of his state burial at his family home in Bondo.
The first-anniversary memorial brought together the Odinga family, prominent Kenyan political figures, Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) stalwarts, and thousands of citizens celebrating his foundational impact on modern Kenyan democrac
