“Keep Raila’s Name Out of Your Mouth,” Nassir Tells Gachagua
Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sherrif Nassir has criticized the United Opposition led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing the group of constantly dragging ODM leader Raila Odinga’s name into their political campaigns.
Speaking in Mombasa, Nassir condemned Gachagua’s remarks during a Monday rally in Ukambani, where the former deputy president dismissed claims linking him and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka to rumors about Raila’s health.
“I have seen somebody talking about bacteria and virus,” Nassir said. “I just want to plead with them, in good faith, please let the name of Raila Amollo Odinga stay out of your mouth.”
The governor said Gachagua and his allies lack the political stature to challenge Raila, describing the ODM leader as a seasoned statesman and reformist who has made unmatched contributions to Kenya’s political evolution.
“He is not at your level,” Nassir declared. “Whatever Raila has done for this country, even if it’s just a little, you cannot match. Stop talking about him.”
Governor Nassir urged the opposition to move beyond its fixation on Raila Odinga, reminding Kenyans that it was Raila who consistently chose peace over chaos during moments of national tension.
“It cannot be every day, Raila this, Raila that,” Nassir said.
He praised Raila’s enduring legacy as a freedom fighter and democracy champion, recalling his years of imprisonment, beatings, and tear gas endured in pursuit of political reform and justice. “Everybody must know their level,” he added.
The verbal exchange escalated after Rigathi Gachagua distanced himself from rumors surrounding Raila’s health, saying sarcastically, “Neither Kalonzo nor I are a bacteria or a virus to cause illness to anyone.”
Gachagua further stated that he and his allies wish Raila good health so that both he and President William Ruto can face them in the 2027 general elections.
“We want both of them on the ballot so we can send them home,” he remarked.
