Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has launched a sharp attack on impeached former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of making divisive and derogatory remarks targeting the Luo community and undermining national unity.
In a statement issued on April 7, Wanga condemned what she described as “reckless and tribal outbursts,” following remarks attributed to Gachagua during a public address in Gatundu.
She said the comments, which allegedly likened members of the Luo community to “barking dogs,” were offensive and unacceptable in a country striving for cohesion.
“No Kenyan community should be demeaned. The Luo people, like all Kenyans, deserve respect and dignity,” Wanga stated, adding that leaders must uphold unity rather than deepen ethnic divisions.
The governor further criticized Gachagua for making the remarks away from the Lake Region, arguing that he should engage communities directly and respectfully.
She claimed his recent attempts to reach out to the region had failed, prompting him to resort to inflammatory rhetoric.
Wanga also dismissed claims by the former deputy president that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) had been “sold” to President William Ruto.
She termed the allegations as baseless and misleading, insisting that ODM remains a strong, independent political movement built on ideology and public support.
“ODM is a 20-year-old institution grounded in the struggle for social justice and devolution. It cannot be sold, bought, or auctioned,” she said.
The ODM national chairperson further defended the legacy of party leader Raila Odinga, accusing Gachagua of hypocrisy for invoking his name.
Wanga alleged that the former deputy president had previously shown disregard for Odinga, including failing to attend his burial rites, and was now attempting to benefit politically from his legacy.
She described Odinga as a symbol of nationalism and pluralism, contrasting his leadership style with what she termed Gachagua’s “sectional and divisive politics.”
In addition, Wanga raised concerns over Gachagua’s past remarks about regional leaders, including Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, which she said reflected a lack of diplomatic maturity and respect.
She argued that such conduct undermines Kenya’s standing within the region and contradicts the expectations of leaders who have held high office.
The governor concluded by urging political leaders to adopt respectful engagement across communities and regions.
While warning against continued attacks on the Luo community and ODM leadership, she maintained that her focus remains on development and service delivery.
“Even as we reject divisive rhetoric, our focus remains on delivering development, strengthening devolution, and improving livelihoods for all Kenyans,” Wanga said.
The statement adds to growing political tensions as leaders trade accusations ahead of renewed realignments in the country’s political landscape.