BONDO, Kenya — Ex-DP Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka are set to visit the grave of the late opposition leader Raila Odinga in Bondo, Siaya County, on Thursday, November 6, in what is shaping up to be a symbolic moment of national reconciliation.
The two leaders will lead a high-level delegation of political and religious figures to pay their respects to the former Prime Minister, the late Raila Odinga who was buried at his rural home on October 24.
The visit will include prayers and a wreath-laying ceremony, expected to draw both residents and ODM party officials.
Raila Odinga, who died on October 15, 2025, was one of Kenya’s most influential political figures and a five-time presidential contender whose decades-long struggle for democracy defined Kenya’s modern political landscape.
His passing prompted a rare display of unity across the political divide, with leaders from both government and opposition paying tribute to his contribution to national reforms, devolution, and multiparty democracy.
In a statement ahead of the visit, Kalonzo Musyoka described the event as “a moment to honor a statesman whose spirit of resilience and vision for Kenya continues to inspire.” He added that the visit would also serve as a gesture of peace and dialogue at a time when Kenya needs healing and national cohesion.
Gachagua’s participation has attracted significant attention, coming months after tensions between the ruling coalition and sections of the opposition. Analysts view the visit as part of a broader effort to bridge historical political divides, particularly between the Mt. Kenya and Nyanza regions—two blocs whose relations have often been strained during election cycles.
“The presence of both Gachagua and Kalonzo in Bondo signals a rare unity of purpose,” said political analyst Dr. Charles Njoroge. “It’s not just about paying respects—it’s a symbolic handshake in the making, one that could set the tone for future political realignments.”
The Bondo visit comes as conversations intensify about the future of the opposition and succession politics within ODM. Kalonzo, who has long been viewed as a possible unifying figure, is expected to use the occasion to reiterate calls for unity and continuity in Raila’s reform agenda.
As the nation continues to reflect on Raila’s political journey, Thursday’s visit is expected to serve both as a moment of remembrance and as a powerful statement about the possibility of national reconciliation beyond partisanship.
