Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has asked for a public inquiry into the deaths of several important Kenyans bringing up questions about what he said were unclear reasons behind some of the deaths during President William Rutos time in office.
Gachagua specifically mentioned the deaths of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla and former Nominated MP Johana Ng'eno according to reports that came out on Tuesday.
His request is more than asking for individual investigations. Gachagua wants an inquest that can look into the situations around the deaths and give answers to families and the public.
This action by the Deputy President is politically important because it happens while his relationship with the Ruto administration is getting more and more difficult. Gachagua has recently become more and more critical of the President saying the government is not helping Kenyans and questioning how the government is handling matters of governance and security.
Why the inquest request is important?
A public inquest would be a way to look at evidence about a death when there are questions about what happened or why it occurred. It could include witnesses and official groups. Might find problems that need more looking into.
Gachaguas request therefore puts pressure on the government and the groups that investigate to show that these important and controversial deaths have been fully checked out.
The deaths he mentioned have already gotten a lot of attention.
General Francis Ogolla died in a helicopter crash in April 2024 with other military people. His death caused a time of mourning and an official look into the crash.
Raila Odinga, Kenyas Prime Minister and long-time leader of the opposition died in October 2025 while getting medical care in India. His passing caused a time of mourning in the country and a major change in the ODM party.
Gachaguas choice to bring these deaths together in one request gives the matter a political meaning especially as Kenya prepares for the 2027 General Election.
It is important to note that Gachaguas request does not say that any of the deaths involved actions or bad behavior. Those things would have to be proven through investigations and proper evidence.
This request is expected to make discussion about being open being responsible and how the country deals with high-profile deaths especially as the tensions, between Gachagua and President Ruto keep getting higher.
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