Gachagua Brands Raila ‘Irrelevant’ as Political Tensions Escalate Over National Dialogue

Former Deputy President dismisses ODM leader’s conclave proposal during diaspora meeting

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has launched a scathing attack on Orange Democratic Movement leader Raila Odinga, branding him “totally irrelevant” in Kenya’s political discourse and dismissing his recent calls for national dialogue as opportunistic maneuvering.

Speaking to Kenyans in Seattle, Washington State on July 11, Gachagua accused Odinga of being a political opportunist who seeks to insert himself into every administration through dialogue while avoiding accountability when things go wrong.

“Raila is totally irrelevant in the political discourse because every election cycle, he loses and finds his way into government,” Gachagua declared.

“He wants to be in government but doesn’t want responsibility. He is there, but somebody else takes the flak.”

The remarks come in response to Odinga’s proposal for a “national conclave” to address Kenya’s mounting challenges, including economic hardships and human rights violations.

The ODM leader had suggested establishing this forum to chart a new path for the country through collective civic engagement and reform.

However, Gachagua questioned Odinga’s motives, particularly given his current role in President William Ruto’s administration.

“Right now, he finds things are too hot for Ruto; he tries to distance himself, but if he were a patriotic Kenyan and he meant well for our country, he would disengage from Kasongo, but he’s talking when his mouth is full,” the former DP stated.

The criticism reflects deepening political fractures as Kenya grapples with rising public discontent over economic hardships and government crackdowns on critics and protesters.

The recent Saba Saba protests, marking the 35th anniversary of the historic demonstrations, saw renewed clashes between protesters and police, highlighting the growing tensions.

Gachagua, who was impeached as Deputy President, rejected dialogue as a solution, instead advocating for electoral change in 2027.

“The dialogue we need is in the ballot box in 2027. Raila has been in every dialogue, but the problems of Kenya don’t end. What we need is transformative leadership,” he argued.

The former DP’s comments underscore the complex political dynamics at play, with Odinga currently serving in Ruto’s government despite being a longtime opposition figure.

Gachagua’s criticism appears aimed at both leaders, suggesting that meaningful dialogue with the current administration would be futile.

“I don’t think the Kenyan problem is talking to William Ruto. Even what you will agree will be a lie, so there’s nothing we can discuss with him because it cannot work,” Gachagua concluded.