Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has joined Kenyans in mourning the late ODM leader Raila Odinga, describing him as a towering figure in Kenya’s political and democratic journey.
In his message of condolence on Wednesday, October 15, Gachagua expressed his sympathy to Raila’s family, recalling the contribution the late leader made to the country’s political landscape.
He hailed Raila as a giant of democracy and a hero whose legacy will remain etched in Africa’s political history.
“Baba Raila Odinga, may you rest well. To the family, your spouse Mama Ida Odinga and your children, my family and I join you in prayer during this difficult moment. My deepest sympathies to you and to the people of the Republic of Kenya.
“The enigma Baba, the father of our democracy and a formidable hero of Kenya’s 2nd liberation, you stood tall and strong in intellect, knowledge and quest for democracy. You faced brutal regimes’ brutality, you were tortured, jailed, abducted and detained severally for Kenya. When the history of Africa’s Pan-Africanism is written, your chapter as the indefatigable lion of Africa will attract many readers,” he said.
Gachagua reflected on Raila’s decades-long public service career, acknowledging his commitment and impact across various roles.
“You dedicated your life in the service of humanity: as a political activist, a Civil Servant, a University Lecturer, an MP, a Party Leader, a Cabinet Minister, a Prime Minister and many other fronts. On all these, your trail of success and impact remains indelible,” he added.
Gachagua further noted that Raila’s voice and resilience would forever be remembered in the country’s fight for democracy and constitutional reform.
“Kenyans will not only remember your craft in resilience, persistence and democratic values days on but also your voice during difficult moments. It will be remembered that you were at the forefront in the fight for Kenya’s democracy and liberation of Kenya on many firsts.
“Most profoundly, Kenya’s multiparty democracy and the Constitution of Kenya 2010, a race you strongly stood in for and we the people of Kenya shall never forget,” he further said.
Despite their political differences, Gachagua praised Raila’s ability to build and maintain a strong political movement over the years.
He concluded his tribute by honouring Raila as a national icon whose influence transcended politics.
“Much as we have never been on the same political side, I have had a strong admiration of Raila Odinga’s art of forming and sustaining a strong political party that survived 4 general elections. I remain amazed by his choice of quality legislators to fly the party flag and eloquently articulate party policies and the people they represented.
“You are a hero celebrated home and away; you have not gone Raila Odinga, you have just faded away. Rest in peace Baba and may perpetual light shine upon you forever,” he concluded.
