Azimio leader Raila Odinga has told Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua not to politicise the funeral of Mukami Kimathi, the widow of freedom fighter Dedan Kimathi. 

Raila proposed that Mukami be honoured with a state funeral at Uhuru Gardens where Mau Mau Freedom fighters were tortured, in recognition of her role and her husband's in the struggle for independence.

Speaking yesterday at the Lee Funeral Home in Nairobi where he had gone to view the body of Mukami, Raila said the widow should be honoured by all Kenyans irrespective of their political persuasion..

• 
  How Dedan Kimathi's four children were nearly flown to India for good
• 
  Mukami: A lifetime of sacrifice and betrayal
  State urged to honour fallen icon's wish on Kimathi burial

“The late Dedan Kimathi and his wife the late Mukami Kimathi fought for the independence of Kenya and their role should be appreciated by all Kenyans. Now that preparations for Mukami’s burial are in progress, I am asking Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and other politicians not to politicise this matter,” said Raila.

The Azimio leader supported proposals by other freedom fighters for the burial site of Kimathi to be located so that he can be buried beside Mukami at their Njabini home in Nyandarua County. 

He said this is the greatest honour the government can give the two freedom fighters.

“I cannot miss attending the funeral of Shujaa Mama Mukami wa Kimathi. We have been close and I will be in Njabini for her final ceremony on earth. Her role and that of her late husband in fighting for the independence of our country is indelible in the hearts of all Kenyans,” said Raila. By Edwin Nyarangi, The Standard