A high-level meeting of Linda Mwananchi leaders drawn from the larger Nyanza region reportedly took place on Tuesday at Governor James Orengo’s residence in Karen, Nairobi, to discuss what insiders described as “the Rigathi Gachagua problem.”
The four-hour meeting brought together key figures, including former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i, who represented the Abagusii constituency, Suba South MP Caroli Omondi representing the Suba community, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, who reportedly spoke on behalf of Luo voters living in Luo Nyanza and the diaspora.
Sources familiar with the discussions say the central agenda was the growing concern over Rigathi Gachagua’s place within the larger opposition and the political implications his association could have in former Raila Odinga’s strongholds.
Sources reveal there was near unanimity among the leaders that while Gachagua may have support from his Mt Kenya region and attract some sympathy among parts of the Abagusii community, he remains deeply unpopular across Luo Nyanza.
They argued that any attempt to market Gachagua politically in Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Migori, or Busia with significant ODM influence would face overwhelming resistance from voters.
“You cannot sell what people do not want to buy,” an MP told the meeting.
Sources indicate that Linda Mwananchi group from Nyanza argued that Rigathi Gachagua’s shareholding politics and ethnic mobilization run contrary to the message that has historically resonated in Luo Nyanza.
For decades, Raila Odinga’s support bases have been mobilized around themes of constitutionalism, social justice, national inclusion, and opposition to ethnic exclusivity.
Many at the meeting reportedly expressed fears that any formal association with Gachagua could be interpreted by voters as an endorsement of a political culture they have long opposed.
The leaders are also said to have noted that Gachagua’s impeachment ruling and the controversies surrounding his tenure as Deputy President have left significant political baggage that would be difficult to defend before Nyanza voters between now and August 2027.
Particular attention was reportedly given to Governor James Orengo’s own history with the former Deputy President.
During Gachagua’s impeachment proceedings in October 2024, Orengo served as the lead external counsel for the National Assembly during the Senate trial. It would be difficult for the Siaya Governor to now explain a close political partnership with the very man whose impeachment he helped prosecute.
The discussions also touched on the political standing of Babu Owino.
The Embakasi East MP remains a popular figure among sections of the youth vote, particularly in Nairobi. However, his decision not to participate in the impeachment vote against Gachagua generated criticism from sections of ODM supporters at the time.
Many party loyalists viewed his absence as a failure to stand with the broader ODM position, championed by Raila at that time.
Babu’s long-term future within ODM remains uncertain, especially as new opposition formations continue to emerge ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Sources say the meeting reached broad consensus that Luo Nyanza remains deeply skeptical of Rigathi Gachagua and his DCP party.
