The United Opposition Youth Leader, Ken Babu, has confirmed that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua will lead a delegation to Bondo to pay tribute to the late Raila Amolo Odinga.

Speaking during a morning interview on a local TV station on Monday, October 27, 2025, the youth leader said the visit would include a cross-section of opposition figures, including Rigathi Gachagua. He said the visit was not political but a gesture of respect to a man who had shaped Kenya’s political history.

“This is an intergovernmental delegation and a team of opposition leaders who will be in Bondo to condole with the Odinga and Jaramogi family,” he said. “We will do that because we understand clearly that the person we are talking about was a national figure.”

The planned visit comes days after Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga claimed that the former DP has yet to mourn Raila.

The youth leader extended his condolences to the Odinga family, led by Raila Jr. and Mama Ida, describing Raila’s death as a national tragedy.

“Raila was one man who, to some extent, controlled the entire nation,” he said. “He was a man without a defined office, but with extreme powers.”

He dismissed claims that Gachagua had been barred from visiting Bondo, saying the family had already clarified the matter.

“Raila Jr. made it clear that they have no issue with anyone. They have not stopped anyone from visiting or mourning with them. The family understands who Raila was,” he said.

The debate began with Gachagua’s absence from Raila’s national farewell at Nyayo Stadium. Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa defended Gachagua, saying his silence was a mark of respect, not indifference.

In a statement dated October 18, Thang’wa said Gachagua chose not to attend to avoid shifting focus from Raila’s legacy.

“Kenya does not stop when Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua chooses silence. It listens even more closely,” he said.

Also watch: Matiang’i leads Gusii leaders to console Mama Ida at Raila’s home.

Leaders pay respects

Gachagua also did not attend the burial ceremony in Bondo, which sparked interest from leaders and Kenyans at large. Several leaders have since visited the grave of the late opposition leader to offer their tributes and prayers.

On Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja and Siaya Governor James Orengo visited Raila’s grave at his Kang’o ka Jaramogi home in Bondo, Siaya County. They were accompanied by members of the Odinga family, including Raila Jr.

The two governors’ visit came two days after Raila’s burial, following similar gestures by former President Uhuru Kenyatta and other national figures who continue to honour Raila’s legacy after his state funeral.

As Ken Babu noted, the expected visit by Gachagua and other opposition figures will be another testament to the respect Raila commanded across the political divide.