Leaders from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have condemned remarks made by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua regarding the health of opposition leader Raila Odinga, accusing him of spreading misinformation and disrespecting a national figure.
The uproar followed reports that Gachagua had commented on Raila’s alleged illness, prompting sharp responses from senior ODM figures who demanded that he “keep off Baba.”
ODM Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga said Gachagua’s comments were in poor taste, reminding him that Raila’s contribution to Kenya’s democracy was beyond comparison.
“The contribution Raila Odinga has made to this country’s freedoms cannot be equated. Gachagua was once a DO, oppressing people,” Wanga said.
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sharrif Nassir also hit out at Gachagua, saying the deputy president was “barking at the wrong tree” and should focus on delivering for Kenyans rather than attacking the opposition.
Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi echoed the sentiments, saying Gachagua and his allies must respect Raila. “The sacrifice Raila has made in this country, you cannot contribute even a drop,” he said.
Narok Senator Ledama Olekina accused Gachagua of using Raila as a political punching bag. “If you were unable to become a deputy president, don’t drag Raila into your frustrations. Only Raila has walked across Kenya uniting people. We will only follow where Baba goes,” he said.
On Sunday, ODM in a presser, hit out at Gachagua for allegedly spreading fake news about Raila’s health, saying he harbored no ill will toward the former prime minister. He added that he wished Raila well, “so that he can be alive when the opposition wins the elections.”
Gachagua dismissed the accusations as an attempt by the opposition to stir unnecessary tension, saying the claims were meant to isolate his political camp.
