Gachagua Urges Mt. Kenya Voters to Elect Leaders of Substance, Eulogizes Raila Odinga

By Jepleting Faith 

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged voters in the Mt. Kenya region to elect leaders guided by integrity, humility, and service, rather than political noise and personal ambition.

Speaking publicly for the first time since the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Gachagua described the late opposition leader as “a man of courage, conviction, and resilience who stood for what he believed in.”

“We must learn from leaders like Raila Odinga who, despite political differences, dedicated his life to serving this country. Leadership is not about shouting the loudest or seeking attention  it’s about character, sacrifice, and consistency,” he said.

The former deputy president called on the electorate to focus on substance over rhetoric as the country heads toward the 2027 general elections. “Our region needs leaders who will unite the people and focus on development, not those who thrive on division. The next generation will judge us by the kind of leaders we choose,” he emphasized.

Gachagua also urged leaders from the Mt. Kenya region to uphold respect and cooperation, saying political competition should not breed hostility. “Let us put aside arrogance and pride. Power is not for show; it is for service to the people,” he added.

His remarks come amid growing political realignments in the region following Raila’s death, as leaders seek to position themselves ahead of the next elections.