Wamalwa defends Gachagua’s absence from Raila’s burial

The Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP-K) leader, Eugene Wamalwa, has defended former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over his absence from the state funeral of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Speaking during an interview on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, Wamalwa emphasised that mourning is a deeply personal matter and that not being physically present does not diminish one’s respect or affection for the deceased.

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“The people mourn in different ways. They might have mourned with the family privately. Being present does not make anyone a better mourner,” Wamalwa said, adding that each individual has their own way of paying tribute.

Also watch: Karungo Wa Thang’wa defends Rigathi Gachagua’s absence from Raila Odinga’s funeral

Family and political ties

Wamalwa further recalled his family’s long-standing ties with the Odinga family, tracing back to the university days of the late Raila Odinga and his late brother, Mike Wamalwa.

He noted that these relationships continued through political engagements under Ford Kenya and the National Alliance of Citizens (NAC), cementing mutual respect over decades.

He described Raila’s death as a “big blow to our democracy and devolution”, highlighting the late leader’s significant contributions to Kenya’s governance and political transformation.

Wamalwa urged Kenyans to focus on Raila’s legacy rather than scrutinising attendance at his burial.

Elsewhere, Martha Karua has faulted the government over the exclusion of the opposition leaders at Raila’s funeral.

Critique of insincere praise

Wamalwa also criticised individuals who had previously opposed or even targeted Raila during his life but quickly released posthumous statements of praise.

Also watch: ODM Vice-Chair in Nyanza bans Gachagua from visiting Raila’s rural home

“We have seen those who tear-gassed him, those who called him names, and even those who attempted to harm him now release bulletins of praise. That is not the way to honour this hero,” he said.

The DAP-K leader stressed that genuine respect for Raila should be rooted in his lifelong commitment to freedom, democracy, and equality.

He referenced Raila’s book, The Flame of Freedom, noting that the late leader’s struggle for justice, even during detention, should inspire Kenyans to uphold the values he championed.

“Raila fought for freedom. True respect for him comes from embracing the values he stood for, not just attending ceremonies. If we honour him in this way, we keep his spirit alive in Kenya’s democracy,” Wamalwa concluded.