Whether trying to use Rigathi Gachagua as a political bogeyman in Raila Odinga's strongholds will succeed is a big political question. Some in ODM will of course be tempted to invoke Gachagua’s past feuds with Raila.
The argument is simple. Gachagua opposed Raila. He attacked Raila politically. He was part of a political establishment that fought Raila for years.
Therefore, ODM supporters should reject him but politics rarely works that way. Voters have short memories. They also have changing interests.
His associates like Siaya Governor James Orengo and Babu Owino are easy sell in some ODM regions.
With the steadily growing popularity of Edwin Sifuna, any hostility against Gachagua will not triumph.
Again, what matters today may not be what mattered five years ago. Raila’s death has changed the political landscape.
His absence has created new alliances and political contests.
ODM cannot assume every voter will carry old political battles forever. Gachagua has a right to go to any part of Kenya.
He has a right to speak to voters. He can explain his differences with Raila. He can also explain what he stands for today.
The voters will then make their choice. That is how democracy should work.
ODM can remind its supporters of Gachagua’s history. It can question his record.
It can challenge his new alliances but it cannot decide for voters.
If Gachagua believes he can win over people in ODM strongholds, he should be allowed to try.
He may face hostility. He may also receive a warm reception.
Both outcomes are part of politics.
The bigger mistake would be to assume ODM zones are permanently owned by the party.
No region belongs to any politician. No voter owes permanent loyalty to any party.
Even Raila built his political support by constantly persuading Kenyans. His political journey was never static.
Gachagua now faces the same test. He must explain himself. He must defend his record.
He must convince voters he has changed, if that is his argument. And if ODM believes he has not changed, it must make that case.
The Raila card may stir emotions, but it may not be enough to close the political door on Gachagua.
In the end, voters, not party officials, hold the key.
The political commentator spoke to the Star
