ODM Warns Gachagua Against Visiting Bondo After Kahiga Remarks

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has cautioned former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua against visiting Bondo in Siaya County following controversial remarks made by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga about the late Raila Odinga.

ODM Opposes Gachagua’s Planned Visit

ODM Deputy Chairperson Seth Kanga said the party would not welcome Gachagua’s visit to the Nyanza region, citing what he termed as “unfriendly sentiments” toward ODM and its leadership.

Speaking in Kisumu, Kanga said the timing of the visit was inappropriate given the ongoing national mourning period for the late opposition leader. “We heard that Gachagua and his team plan to visit the home of our party leader, the late Raila Odinga. We are urging him—please, don’t step in Bondo,” Kanga stated.

Kahiga’s Remarks Spark Outrage

The warning follows a viral video showing Governor Kahiga suggesting that political power had shifted to the Nyanza region after the new working relationship between President William Ruto and Raila Odinga.

In the clip, recorded during a burial in Nyeri, Kahiga appeared to claim that Raila’s death was “God’s plan” and had “levelled the political playing field.” The comments quickly drew condemnation across the country, with many calling them divisive and disrespectful.

ODM and Leaders Condemn Kahiga

ODM Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga described Kahiga’s statements as “primitive, insensitive, and deeply insulting.” She said the remarks mocked the legacy of a national leader who fought for democracy and unity.

Wanga also demanded Kahiga’s immediate resignation as Vice Chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG). “This country deserves leaders who embody empathy and respect, not divisive rhetoric. Kahiga must go,” she declared.

Council of Governors Responds

Council of Governors Chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi distanced the institution from Kahiga’s comments, stressing that they represented his personal opinions. “We condemn these utterances, which were both untimely and unacceptable—especially during a period when Kenyans are mourning,” Abdullahi said.

Following widespread criticism, Kahiga issued a public apology and stepped down from his CoG leadership position.

ODM Maintains Warning to Gachagua

ODM has maintained its stance that Gachagua’s planned visit to Bondo could heighten regional tensions. Party leaders urged him to reconsider his plans to avoid disrupting the peace and respect the memory of the late Raila Odinga.