Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua engaged in discussions with Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Oburu Odinga in Machakos, gathering at the home of Senator Agnes Kavindu to express condolences following the death of her son, Moses Muthama.
Kiambu Senator Karung’o Thang’wah, who accompanied Gachagua, shared photographs of the meeting on Friday, February 13, 2026, confirming the encounter.
Despite their history of political rivalry, the two leaders were seen sharing lighthearted moments, exchanging greetings, and even embracing, all while maintaining a solemn demeanor befitting the funeral’s atmosphere.
Senator Thang’wah remarked, “Sen. Dr. Oburu has been reminded by H.E. RiggyG that Canaan is in the Middle East while Singapore is in Asia. Thus, one cannot reach Canaan via Singapore unless they lack direction or are utterly lost.”
Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka also attended the gathering, sharing similar moments with Oburu.
Several leaders allied with the two opposition figures were present, including Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa, Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, and Makueni Governor Mutula Junior. Rigathi Gachagua was accompanied by his wife, Pastor Dorcas Gachagua.
Kalonzo Muthama’s Rift
Kalonzo sat close to former Machakos Senator Johnson Muthama, the father of the deceased. Their political relationship has soured in recent years, particularly during the 2022 election cycle when Muthama, then Vice Chair of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), opposed Kalonzo, who represented a different political faction. This rift contributed to Muthama’s loss of the Machakos gubernatorial seat to Wavinya Ndeti.
Oburu Odinga has frequently criticized Gachagua over past remarks regarding ‘shares’ made prior to his removal from the deputy president position. He emphasized that ODM cannot form a coalition with Gachagua’s Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), arguing that Gachagua’s party does not advocate for inclusivity.
Gachagua’s Missed Condolence Visit
This meeting follows Gachagua’s recent failure to visit Kang’o Ka Jaromogi to pay tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, despite having promised to do so and notifying the family, including Oburu, of his intended visit.
Some ODM leaders had previously cautioned Gachagua against visiting the region, yet Oburu defended his right to attend, asserting that everyone, regardless of political affiliation, should be allowed to mourn with the family. He noted that the late Raila Odinga never harbored political animosity and approached politics with a personal touch.
This gathering marks the first occasion that Oburu Odinga and Rigathi Gachagua have shared the same space, hinting at the complexities of political relationships in times of grief.
