Calvince Okoth, popularly known as Gaucho, has paid an emotional tribute to the late former Prime Minister and ODM leader Raila Amollo Odinga, describing him as a mentor whose influence shaped his political journey and personal transformation.
The tribute comes a few days after Gaucho was appointed to the Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital Board in Nairobi, in a gazette notice issued by the Nairobi County Government under Governor Johnson Sakaja.
The appointment, which runs for a three-year term, placed him among six members selected under the Facilities Improvement Financing Act, 2023.
In his message, Gaucho reflected on what he described as Raila’s personal investment in his life, saying the veteran opposition leader saw potential in him at a time when he could not see it himself.
He credited Raila with opening doors that eventually led to his current public service role.
“Baba Raila Amollo Odinga, it pains my heart deeply that you are not here to witness the fruits of your goodness, your mentorship, and your unwavering belief in me,” he wrote.
He added that Raila had once promised to speak to senior leaders, including President William Ruto and Governor Sakaja, to help him find a platform to serve young people, which he referred to as “Wanaghetto.”
Gaucho also acknowledged Raila’s family, particularly his daughter Rosemary Odinga, whom he credited with offering him support during difficult moments.
He said she played a key role in introducing him into Raila’s close circle and believing in his potential.
“Your daughter Rosemary Odinga picked me from the streets, believed in me, and brought me into your family,” he noted, adding that Raila embraced him and guided him through the challenges of political life.
He further described Raila as a father figure, saying he had lost both parents in the 1990s and found emotional support and direction in the veteran politician’s mentorship.
Gaucho said Raila’s influence continued to guide him even in his absence, particularly through the symbolic beret he associated with Raila’s revolutionary identity.
Despite Raila’s passing, Gaucho said his legacy remains alive in his life and career. He pledged loyalty to Raila’s ideals and family, and expressed commitment to serving Kenyans in the spirit of the former Prime Minister’s political vision.
He also extended appreciation to President William Ruto, stating that his administration supported his appointment through Governor Sakaja.
Gaucho described the opportunity as evidence of the Bottom-Up economic model in practice, saying it had opened doors for young people from humble backgrounds.
Additionally, he thanked Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and former Minority Leader Junet Mohammed, referring to them as key figures who guided him through his political journey.
The appointment has, however, attracted mixed reactions online, with some Kenyans questioning the criteria used to select board members, while others defended it as part of youth inclusion in governance structures.
Gaucho maintained that he remains focused on service delivery and honoring Raila Odinga’s legacy through his new role in public service.