Gachagua Faces Call to Mend Decades-Long Ethnic Tensions With Raila Bondo Visit
A Bondo-based resident has urged former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to use his upcoming visit to Opoda Farm as an opportunity to bridge long-standing political and ethnic tensions between Kenya’s Kikuyu and Luo communities.
In an open letter obtained by Flashnews.co.ke, the resident framed Gachagua’s trip as a chance to reset relations that have been strained for years.
Gachagua last week confirmed plans to visit the gravesite of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in the first week of December, following weeks of speculation. The visit reportedly followed consultations with Winnie Odinga, after some Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders advised against him travelling to Bondo.
The letter notes that Gachagua’s decision to pay respects at Raila Odinga’s final resting place carries profound historical symbolism. “Such gestures can help break cycles of political hostility that have, over the years, shaped Kenya’s elections,” the resident wrote.
The Bondo native also recalled Gachagua’s past rhetoric during the 2023 protests, when the then Deputy President declared he would “personally send Raila back to Bondo” while Odinga was in opposition.
“Now, Raila is permanently in Bondo, and it is extremely gracious of you to go to solemnly witness his final resting place. I am sure that this is not what you meant when you said you would send him to Bondo,” the letter stated.
Acknowledging Gachagua’s role in shaping government coalitions, the resident urged him to prioritise reconciliation over political theatre during the visit, particularly given the national attention it is likely to attract.
“Forget about this running with cows and shouting Jowi. Please spare Pastor Dorcas the ritual of running with the spear,” the letter added, referencing local ceremonial practices.
The writer also reminded Gachagua of the broader responsibility he holds toward younger generations. “This feud between two of the biggest communities in Kenya can derail this country. But at your high pedestal as a former Deputy President, you can exert influence that endures for generations,” the letter read.
Earlier, on November 1, Gachagua publicly praised the late Raila Odinga as a political master who consistently found ways to win, even in the face of adversity. He said he was in the process of reinforcing his own political base to achieve similar success.
Gachagua had also planned to attend Raila Odinga’s State funeral at Kasarani Stadium on October 17 but reportedly stayed away citing safety concerns.
The upcoming visit to Opoda Farm is now being closely watched as a potential moment of political reconciliation and a signal of unity between historically divided communities.
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Gachagua Faces Call to Mend Decades-Long Ethnic Tensions With Raila Bondo Visit