Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua has criticised the late former prime minister Raila Odinga, arguing that the veteran politician did not do enough to mentor a younger generation capable of carrying forward his political legacy.
Gachagua made the remarks on Monday, August 25, while hosting young Gen Z supporters at his Wamunyoro residence in Nyeri County.
He singled out Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, saying Raila could have given the outspoken lawmaker greater space to develop into a senior political leader.
“I wish Raila had given Babu Owino more room to grow. If I were in Raila’s position, I would have mentored him. By now, ODM would have had a very strong young leader ready to take over,” Gachagua said.
Gachagua Questions Raila’s Succession Plan
Gachagua acknowledged Raila’s significant contribution to Kenyan politics and his role in building the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) into one of the country’s most influential political parties.
However, he argued that the former prime minister failed to establish a clear succession plan or sufficiently prepare younger politicians to take over his political networks.
According to Gachagua, Raila’s death left ODM and his broader political base vulnerable to competing interests.
He also questioned whether Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, who took over the leadership of ODM following Raila’s death, would be able to maintain the party’s national influence.
“Without meaning any disrespect to Oburu, the question is whether he can take ODM forward and preserve the political influence Raila built over the years,” Gachagua said.
The former deputy president said established politicians should deliberately identify, mentor and empower younger leaders instead of retaining political influence indefinitely.
Gachagua Calls for More Youth Participation
Gachagua said Kenya’s political future depends on experienced leaders creating opportunities for younger politicians to take up leadership responsibilities.
He urged political leaders across the country to involve young people in decision-making and give them meaningful roles within political organisations.
The former deputy president also used the meeting to promote his Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), which he said was positioning itself as a platform for young people.
Addressing the Gen Z audience, Gachagua encouraged them to participate actively in politics rather than waiting for a future generation to take over.
“Young people are not simply the leaders of tomorrow. They are leaders of today as well as tomorrow, and I challenge you to take your rightful place in Kenya’s political space,” Gachagua said.
His remarks come as political parties and leaders intensify efforts to build alliances and mobilise support ahead of the 2027 General Election.