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Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has criticised the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) for involving opposition leaders in discussions surrounding Raila Odinga's health.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Monday, October 6, 2025, publicly rebuked the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) for accusing the opposition of spreading misinformation about their party leader Raila Odinga's health. Speaking at a rally in Ukambani, Gachagua dismissed claims that he and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka were responsible for any illness affecting Odinga, stating, "I saw yesterday ODM people bringing nonsense. That their elder has problems. Now they want to blame Kalonzo and me. Is Kalonzo a virus, is he a bacteria? Now, where does Kalonzo come in with matters of sickness?"
The ODM had on Sunday, October 5, 2025, issued a statement accusing a political faction led by Gachagua, Musyoka, and DAP-K's Eugene Wamalwa of deliberately spreading false narratives, including claims that Odinga had travelled to Europe for medical treatment. The party clarified that Odinga was in good health and on a routine international trip, dismissing rumours that he was indisposed.
Speculation surrounding Raila Odinga's health intensified after a photo circulated online on Sunday, October 5, reportedly showing him at King's College Hospital in Dubai alongside Awendo MP Walter Owino. While the ODM secretariat confirmed Odinga had left the country on Friday, October 3, for an undisclosed mission, they denied claims of him travelling to Europe for treatment, instead referring to his trip as a "medical holiday."
Gachagua, who served as Deputy President until his impeachment in October 2024, challenged Odinga to publicly address his health status, suggesting that public appearances, rather than written statements, would quell rumours. He drew a parallel with former President Daniel Arap Moi, who would make public appearances to dispel health-related murmurs.
The exchange highlights ongoing political tensions, particularly concerning the 2027 General Election. Gachagua, now the party leader of DCP Kenya, has openly stated his ambition to be President of Kenya and has predicted a two-horse race between President William Ruto and a united opposition candidate.
Former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Kipruto Arap Kirwa also criticised ODM's handling of the matter, describing their comments as "unsolicited" and urging the party to avoid politicising health issues. Kirwa emphasised that Odinga is a national figure whose health matters should be treated with privacy and dignity.
The politicisation of a leader's health could distract from substantive policy debates and potentially fuel further division within the political landscape. It also raises questions about the ethical boundaries of political discourse and the respect for individual privacy, even for public figures. Continued speculation without clear communication from Odinga's camp could also impact public perception and trust.
Observers will be keenly watching for any direct communication from Raila Odinga regarding his health and whereabouts. Further exchanges between ODM and the opposition factions are also anticipated as the political climate heats up in the run-up to the 2027 General Election.
