How do you invite Gachagua to Raila’s anniversary; MP Kaluma
How do you invite Gachagua to Raila’s anniversary; MP Kaluma
Homa Bay Town Member of Parliament Peter Kaluma has questioned the decision to invite former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to the first anniversary commemoration of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at Migwena Grounds.
In a statement shared on social media on Saturday, October 17, 2026, the outspoken legislator also took issue with Siaya Governor James Orengo, questioning his role in organising the proceedings of the October 15, 2026 event.
“Who allowed Orengo to be in charge of Baba’s first anniversary?” Kaluma posed, adding that Jakom, referring to Raila, deserved better organisation.
He also questioned the invitation extended to Gachagua, accusing the former deputy president of having opposed Raila during his political career.
“How do you invite Gachagua, who hunted Baba unto death, to Baba’s anniversary?” he asked.
Kaluma’s remarks come amid growing criticism of Raila’s immediate family, led by his widow, Ida Odinga, following the commemoration, with questions raised over their decision to invite opposition leaders from across the political divide.
Gachagua had earlier shared the invitation extended to him by Ida Odinga but did not attend the event, saying he was on a previously planned trip to the United States.
The family’s decision to bring together leaders from different political camps has sparked debate, with some questioning the presence of certain politicians while others defend the inclusive nature of the commemoration.
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However, Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo has come to the defence of Ida and her children, describing the continued attacks against them as uncalled for.
Odhiambo argued that the family had every right to honour Raila in a manner that reflected his political beliefs, including democracy and freedom of expression.
She said Raila had fought for a political environment where even those who disagreed with him could express their views, adding that there was nothing wrong with the family inviting leaders from across the political divide.
Ida had also defended her position during the commemoration, saying that as Raila’s widow, she had inherited his friends, not his enemies.
The controversy comes as several ODM leaders and other political figures skipped the Migwena event, further fuelling debate over the political divisions surrounding Raila’s legacy and the direction of the opposition ahead of the 2027 General Election.
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