Gachagua’s Ally Defends His Absence From Raila Odinga’s Farewell Service

Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thangwa, a close ally of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, has spoken out to clarify why Gachagua did not attend the late Raila Odinga’s state funeral held on Friday, October 17, at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi.

Many Kenyans were surprised after Gachagua failed to appear at the major ceremony, especially since other top opposition leaders such as Kalonzo Musyoka, Fred Matiang’i, and Martha Karua were present.

His absence was also noted at earlier events, including the public viewing sessions of Raila’s body, which triggered a wave of speculation and criticism across the country.

However, according to Senator Karungo wa Thangwa, Gachagua’s decision to stay away was not out of disrespect or political defiance. Instead, he said it was a calculated and thoughtful act meant to uphold the dignity of the occasion.

“Rigathi Gachagua is not an ordinary politician. He is one of the most influential leaders in today’s Kenya. It is exactly because of that high stature that he chose not to attend the public farewell,” Thangwa said.

He argued that if Gachagua had attended, the atmosphere of the event might have shifted from focusing on Raila Odinga’s legacy to political debates and endless speculation about alliances and rivalries.

According to the senator, Gachagua chose silence so that the entire nation could fully reflect on Raila’s long journey, sacrifices, and contributions to Kenya without distractions.

“That day was not about politics or who stands with who. It was about Kenya standing together to honour a great son of the nation,” Thangwa added.

He further described the former DP’s decision as a sign of maturity and statesmanship — the kind of leadership that speaks loudest even without a microphone.

“It was quiet leadership. It was the act of someone who knows when to step back so that the moment can speak for itself,” he explained.

Thangwa also claimed that the fact many Kenyans discussed and questioned Gachagua’s absence only proved his importance in the country’s political space.

He concluded by saying that true leadership is not measured by who shouts the loudest but by the wisdom to understand the mood of the nation and act accordingly.

“Gachagua does not need to appear on every stage to make an impact. His presence is felt even when he is silent,” the senator said.

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