Nairobi-based political mobilizer Calvince Okoth, popularly known as Gaucho, has claimed that the late Raila Odinga played a role in his appointment as a board member at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital.
Speaking in an interview on NTV on April 23, Gaucho said that more than a year ago, Odinga had informed him that Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja would help him secure a job.
“One and a half or two years ago, Baba (Raila Odinga) told me he would find me a job. He had spoken to Johnson Sakaja to secure me a position,” he said.
In the interview, Gaucho said he did not believe he had been appointed until he read the contents of the gazette notice.
Raila Odinga’s Role in Okoth’s Appointment
On April 19, Gaucho also expressed appreciation for the backing he has received from the family of Raila Odinga, noting that their confidence in him goes back several years.
“Special thanks go to the family of Raila Odinga Baba and Broad-Based Arrangement, who believed in me long before this moment, and three years ago, he assured me he would speak to the President on my behalf. Today, that promise has come to life. To all the government officials who have reached out to congratulate me, I am sincerely grateful. Your support means a lot,” Gaucho said.
He also thanked Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, saying the support marked a significant moment in his personal journey and reflected trust in his ability to serve.
Additionally, he acknowledged President William Ruto, expressing appreciation for the opportunity to take up the role and linking his appointment to the government’s broader service delivery agenda.
Also Read: “Give the Youth Jobs You Promised During Campaigns; Gaucho Tells Govt
Gaucho Speaks Up on Why He is Qualified for the Job
His appointment has triggered online debate, with some Kenyans questioning whether he meets the qualifications for the role.
In response, Gaucho dismissed critics who have linked him to goonism, instead pointing to the difficult living conditions in many informal settlements across Nairobi.
He noted that Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital primarily serves patients from low-income areas such as Korogocho, Dandora, Mathare, Mukuru, Njenga, and Kayole.
Also Read: Gaucho Pinpoints Cop Who Tortured Him
He maintained that his lived experience gives him a clear understanding of the challenges faced by ordinary patients, particularly those struggling to settle hospital bills.
Gaucho argued that effective representation on the board depends not only on academic qualifications but also on the ability to advocate for vulnerable communities and push for practical solutions.
Despite the online backlash, Gaucho said he remains focused on championing the needs of underserved populations and is not shaken by the criticism surrounding his appointment.
