Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa has come out strongly to defend former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s absence from Raila Odinga’s state funeral at Nyayo National Stadium, saying his silence was a mark of respect, not defiance.

In a statement released on Saturday, October 18, 2025, Karungo said Gachagua’s decision to skip the national farewell was deliberate and guided by emotional intelligence and statesmanship.

“Kenya does not stop when Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua chooses silence; it listens even more closely,” the senator wrote. He added that Gachagua’s absence should not be mistaken for indifference or fear, but for maturity and a deep understanding of the moment.

“His absence from Baba’s farewell was not an act of defiance, weakness, or guilt. It was a deliberate show of statesmanship, emotional intelligence, and deep respect for a moment that was bigger than politics.”

Silence misunderstood

Karungo described the former Deputy President as one of the most influential leaders in the country, respected even by those who disagree with him. He said Gachagua understood that his presence at the funeral could have shifted attention away from Raila’s legacy and turned the day into a political spectacle.

“The day was not about politics, alliances, or rivalries. It was about Kenya coming together to honour a towering figure in our history,” Karungo stated.

According to the senator, Gachagua chose to step back so that the spotlight could remain on Raila’s life, sacrifice, and contribution to the nation. He said the former Deputy President’s quiet approach showed wisdom and respect.

Karungo also revealed that Gachagua plans to honour Raila in a personal way by laying a wreath at his resting place in Bondo, saying true respect is not about standing before cameras but bowing with dignity.

“When the right time comes, he will honour Raila, not before a sea of cameras, but in a deeply personal and respectful way, by laying a wreath at his resting place in Bondo,” he said.

“The fact that the country spent more time discussing who was not at Nyayo Stadium than who was present is proof of the Deputy President’s national significance.”