The Democracy for Citizens Party Leader Rigathi Gachagua has prayed that God grant Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party Leader Raila Odinga good health and a long life.
In his message during an exclusive interview with a local TV station on Sunday, October 5, 2025, the former deputy president said he wishes Raila and President William Ruto to unite in the 2027 elections “so that they can go home together.”
Gachagua’s wish to Raila
Gachagua dismissed claims that he harbours ill will toward the former prime minister, insisting that politics should never override humanity.
“My prayer is that God gives Raila a long and good life. I also pray that he supports William Ruto in 2027 so that we can beat them together, which would make me very happy,” he said. “But wishing him ill or bad? I’m not that kind of person, and I’m not bothered.”
He went on to criticise ODM for what he termed a moral decline since aligning itself with President Ruto’s administration.
“I am very saddened by ODM. The party has sunk so low since it started supporting Ruto. I wasn’t even aware Raila was unwell because I’ve been busy working for Kenyans,” Gachagua added.
ODM responds to Gachagua
His remarks came just hours after senior ODM officials lashed out at Gachagua for “meddling” in Raila’s personal affairs and health.
Speaking at the Sigand Nyi Nam forum in Siaya County, ODM Chairlady Gladys Wanga, Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu, and Homa Bay Woman Representative Joyce Atieno Bensouda accused Gachagua of seeking political relevance by repeatedly invoking Raila’s name.
“Gachagua has run out of ideas; that’s why he keeps on mentioning Raila everywhere,” the leaders said. “The former premier does not match him politically.”
Bensouda urged Gachagua to stop “joking with life,” emphasising that wishing someone ill for political mileage was unacceptable.
Suba South MP Caroli Omondi also called on Christians across the country to pray for Raila’s full recovery.
ODM has since clarified that Raila left the country for an undisclosed mission and dismissed rumours about his health as baseless propaganda meant to undermine the opposition’s credibility.
