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Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s outspoken animosity towards former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is no secret in Kenyan politics. The rivalry between the two prominent figures has been evident for years, with Gachagua consistently criticizing Odinga and his political ideologies. But how, why, and when did this feud originate? Others claim it stems from differing ideologies and policies, but here are the facts.
The animosity between Gachagua and Odinga can be traced back to the 2007 presidential election, where Odinga contested against former President Mwai Kibaki. Raila, running under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, accused Gachagua, who was then a member of the Party of National Unity (PNU), of participating in rigging the election in favor of former President the late Mwai Kibaki. The disputed election results led to widespread violence across the country, resulting in the deaths of over 1,000 people and the displacement of hundreds of thousands more. Raila and his supporters blamed Gachagua and the PNU for the violence, further deepening the enmity between the two politicians.
On the other hand, Gachagua,who was by then a strong supporter of Kibaki, viewed Odinga’s challenge to the election results as a threat to the stability of the country. This incident laid the foundation for Gachagua’s distrust and disdain towards Raila Odinga, as he believed that Odinga’s actions had fueled political unrest in the country.
The 2013 presidential election also played a significant role in intensifying the rivalry between Gachagua and Raila. Raila, once again running for president, lost to Uhuru Kenyatta, who was backed by Gachagua and the Jubilee Party. Raila contested the election results in court, alleging that the election had been rigged in favor of his opponent. The Supreme Court ruling in favor of Uhuru Kenyatta only served to further sour the relationship between Gachagua and Raila, with both sides trading accusations of electoral malpractice and corruption.
In addition to the electoral disputes, Gachagua and Raila have clashed on various policy issues, further fueling their hatred towards each other. Gachagua, as a staunch supporter of President Uhuru Kenyatta’s government by then, often criticized Raila for what he perceived as divisive and destructive politics. Raila, on the other hand, accused Gachagua of corruption and mismanagement, leading to a war of words between the two politicians.
The role of tribal politics has also played a significant role in the rivalry between Gachagua and Raila. Gachagua, as a member of the Agikuyu community, has often been accused by Raila and his supporters of promoting tribalism and nepotism. Conversely, Gachagua has accused Raila of playing tribal politics to advance his own agenda, further deepening the ethnic divisions in the country.
The 2017 presidential election marked another chapter in the long-standing feud between Gachagua and Raila. Raila once again ran for president, this time under the National Super Alliance (NASA) coalition, while Gachagua continued to support Uhuru Kenyatta. The election results were once again disputed by Raila, who accused Gachagua and the Jubilee Party of rigging the election in favor of Kenyatta. The political tension that followed the election culminated in the Supreme Court nullifying the results and ordering a rerun, which Raila boycotted, further exacerbating the bitterness between the two politicians.
Gachagua,who by then was a key ally of Kenyatta and Ruto again accused Raila of being a divisive and power-hungry leader. Odinga, on the other hand, criticized the ruling government for corruption and mismanagement of public funds. The bitter campaign highlighted the deep-rooted differences between Gachagua and Odinga, with both politicians trading insults and accusations.
The strained relationship between Gachagua and Raila Odinga reached a boiling point during the controversial Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) process. The BBI, spearheaded by Odinga and Kenyatta, aimed to address electoral reforms and promote national unity. However, Gachagua and other politicians allied to Ruto viewed the BBI as a political tool to extend the terms of the ruling government and sideline their political interests. Gachagua vehemently opposed the BBI, accusing Odinga and Kenyatta of attempting to manipulate the political system for their benefit.
In addition to political differences, personal factors have also played a role in fueling Gachagua’s hatred towards Odinga. Odinga’s charismatic leadership style and unwavering dedication to social justice have made him a formidable opponent in Kenyan politics. Gachagua, on the other hand, has been criticized for his close ties to the ruling government and allegations of corruption. These contrasting personalities and ideologies have further exacerbated the tension between the two politicians.
In conclusion, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s hatred towards Raila Odinga can be attributed to a combination of political differences, personal rivalries, and historical events. The animosity between the two politicians has been evident for years, with both sides engaging in bitter exchanges and accusations. While the origins of this feud may be complex, it is clear that Gachagua’s deep-seated distrust and disdain towards Odinga have shaped his political beliefs and actions. As Kenya’s political landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial for leaders to find common ground and work towards a more inclusive and united future for the country.
