Senior figures in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have condemned former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for what they describe as “deliberate misinformation” about the health of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Speaking at a cultural gathering in Siaya County on Sunday, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga accused Mr Gachagua of “peddling lies” and stoking unnecessary divisions within the opposition.
“That opposition is imploding because one man called Gachagua is such a divisive character. He cannot bring people together. Baba is a uniter; Gachagua is a divider,” said Ms Wanga, referring to Mr Odinga by his popular nickname.
Her comments came after a series of remarks by Mr Gachagua that appeared to question Mr Odinga’s health — comments that have drawn anger across the Azimio la Umoja coalition.
Ms Wanga also warned Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and other opposition figures against entertaining divisive politics.
“This man is insulting even those meant to be his partners. The other day he said Matiang’i is a boardroom person who cannot be a president,” she said.
Several ODM lawmakers echoed her criticism, calling Mr Gachagua’s remarks “reckless” and “unbecoming.”
Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu accused him of exploiting Mr Odinga’s health for political mileage.
“Raila Odinga cannot be his agenda if he wants to lead this country. Can he tell Kenyans what he plans to do instead of talking about Raila’s health? Who told him Raila is sick?” she asked.
She added that Mr Odinga remained central to Kenya’s political stability.
“Raila is the glue that holds this country together. Without him, Kenya would not be as peaceful as it is today.”
Siaya Woman Representative Christine Ombaka and Migori Woman Representative Fatuma Mohamed also weighed in, urging restraint and responsible leadership.
“Using someone’s health as a political weapon is not only unethical but dangerous,” Ms Ombaka said.
Separately, Suba South MP Caroli Omondi, speaking in Ugunja, called on Kenyans to pray for Mr Odinga’s well-being and urged leaders to avoid politicising personal matters.
The controversy has underscored rising tensions within Kenya’s opposition, still reeling from electoral defeats and shifting alliances ahead of the 2027 general election.
While Mr Gachagua has not publicly responded to the latest accusations, his recent statements have reignited debate about the tone of political discourse in the country — and the lengths leaders will go in pursuit of power.
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