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Why Gachagua Was Absent at Raila’s Farewell, According to His Camp

A key ally of Rigathi Gachagua has come forward to explain the former Deputy President’s reason for missing the public farewell ceremony for Raila Odinga.

According to Senator Karungo Wa Thangwa, Gachagua’s no show at Kasarani and Nyayo was not a show of defiance but respect for the late statesman.

Also read: Wave of Grief as Mourners Collapse Viewing Raila Odinga’s Body

The DCP leader has missed all the public memorial processions for Raila Odinga. This has sparked a series of reactions from a number of Kenyans.

Many have accused the former deputy president of being heartless and petty despite him sending the family a condolence message. Kenyans expected him to attend the memorial.

Defending Gachagua’s no show at the public farewell memorials, Senator Karungo stated;

Gachagua is not just another politician. He is one of the most consequential leaders of our time. It is precisely because of that stature that he chose not to attend the public farewell

According to the Senator, Gachagua’s attendance would have sparked speculations and changed the mood of the farewell from mourning and paying respect to politics.

The senator continued, “Rigathi Gachagua’s decision to skip Raila Odinga’s memorial was itself a sign of respect.”

‘By staying away, he ensured the focus remained entirely on Raila and the great farewell he received,’ the senator explained, ‘allowing his legacy to stand on its own.’

It’s still not clear whether Gachagua will be attending Raila’s Burial in Bondo on Sunday. Although it’s unlikely, Kenyans think it will be a sign of respect if he did.