Gachagua renews debate on circumstances of Raila’s death, calls for answers

Nairobi, Kenya, Aug 11 - Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has reignited questions about the circumstances leading to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's death, demanding answers regarding his final medical treatment and the events surrounding his demise. During his "Ruto at 4" analysis of President William Ruto's administration, Gachagua brought up a series of inquiries into Raila's last hours, including why his personal doctors were reportedly barred from his side, why Nairobi West Hospital doctors were part of his care, and why medical advice against travel was ignored.

He also queried the decision to transport Raila to India by private jet and the details of his post-treatment care. Gachagua pressed for clarification on why there was no postmortem and who approved decisions about Raila's final medical procedures. The former Deputy President suggested the unanswered questions about Raila's death warranted investigation, and added that similar queries should be directed at other high-profile deaths.

Following Gachagua's comments, opposition leaders have called for a public inquiry into Raila's passing. In February, Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka advocated for a public inquest, citing comments from Siaya Governor James Orengo that raised doubts about whether Raila died naturally or otherwise. Musyoka expressed concern that Orengo's remarks hinted at the possibility of foul play and urged Kenyans to back a transparent investigation to uncover the truth about Raila's death.

The debate intensified after Orengo stated that the circumstances of Raila's death remained a mystery, vowing to ultimately reveal the facts. Raila passed away on October 15, 2025, while receiving medical care in Kerala, India, after collapsing with his sister, daughter, and personal doctor. Indian authorities reported that he had fallen while walking.

Since then, Raila's death has sparked political discourse, with calls for more transparency and investigations into his passing echoing across Kenya.