Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has announced plans to visit the family of the late opposition leader Raila Odinga in Bondo, Siaya County, as part of a condolence visit and gesture of respect.
Gachagua, who previously described Raila as a “hero celebrated at home and abroad,” said he intends to personally visit Mama Ida Odinga at the family home in Opoda Farm and also pay respects at Raila’s gravesite at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi.
He revealed that he has already communicated with members of the Odinga family to coordinate the visit.
According to him, he spoke with Mama Ida Odinga, who indicated she would propose a suitable date, and also engaged Raila’s daughter, Winnie Odinga, who approved the timing after key by-elections scheduled for late 2025.
In earlier remarks, Gachagua said he would lead a delegation of elders, religious leaders, and political figures from the Mount Kenya region.
He emphasized that the visit would go beyond personal mourning, describing it as an opportunity to strengthen national unity and foster cross-political relationships.
Sources close to the Odinga family indicate there is no objection to the planned visit, with coordination ongoing to ensure proper timing.
Raila Odinga Jr. has also previously encouraged Kenyans from all backgrounds to visit the family and pay their respects.
The planned visit comes at a time of shifting political dynamics in the country, with leaders increasingly engaging across traditional political divides.
Observers say such gestures could help ease political tensions and promote national cohesion, even as competition ahead of future elections continues to build.
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Politics