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.
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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.
Elsewhere, former President Uhuru Kenyatta mourned Raila as a towering statesman and a personal friend, reflecting on their shared history, marked by rivalry, reconciliation, and unity of purpose.
He said the news of Raila’s passing had left a deep void in the country and in his own heart.
"My heart is heavy, and my spirit is burdened with a grief that is both profound and deeply personal. The news of Raila’s passing has left a silence that echoes across our nation, a silence where once there was a voice of thunder and conviction," he said.
Uhuru went on to describe Raila as a major influence in his personal and political life, acknowledging their complicated yet meaningful relationship over the years.
"To me, Raila was more than a political colleague; he was a defining part of my own journey, in public service and in life. Raila and I were navigators on opposing currents, charting different courses for the nation we both loved.
"At some point along that journey, we became political opponents and often, the weight of that competition felt immense," he continued.
Uhuru reflected on the transformation of their relationship after the historic 2018 'handshake,' which symbolized reconciliation and national healing.
"In the recent years, a different bond was forged; one of respect, of shared patriotism, and a common desire to see a united Kenya. That journey from fierce political opponents to partners in the pursuit of “Handshake” unity taught me the true measure of the man.
"I saw firsthand his unwavering passion for this country, his deep-seated belief in justice, and his incredible capacity to think beyond personal ambition for the sake of national peace. He was a formidable opponent, but he was an even more invaluable ally in the cause of reconciliation," he added.
Concluding his message, Uhuru described Raila as a friend and a brother whose spirit and belief in Kenya would remain unmatched.
"I have lost a friend and a brother. I will miss our conversations sometimes challenging, always insightful and the fire of belief that never left his eyes.
"To Mama Ida, the children, and the entire Odinga family, I extend my deepest, most heartfelt condolences. You have shared Baba with Kenya for a lifetime, and we mourn with you. We have lost a father to the nation, a steadfast champion for the people, and a true son of Kenya," he concluded.
