Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has joined mourners to pay his last respects to Colonel (Rtd) James Nguyo Gitahi, a veteran pilot who tragically lost his life in a road accident on March 7, 2025.
Gitahi, the husband of ODM-nominated Senator Betty Batuli Montet, died after his vehicle collided head-on with an oncoming lorry at Kyumvi Junction on Mombasa Highway and burst into flames.
During the sombre ceremony in Machakos County on Saturday, March 15, 2025, Raila was seen consoling Senator Montet, offering his support to the grieving widow.
The ODM leader joined family members, friends, and colleagues of the deceased in honouring the life of the experienced pilot.
Tragic road accident
The accident occurred around 5:30 PM on March 7, 2025, while Gitahi was travelling alone in his saloon car towards Nairobi.
While attempting to overtake a lorry, he collided with an oncoming vehicle, causing his car to catch fire and trapping him inside.
Despite the efforts of rescuers at the scene, they were unable to save Gitahi, who suffered severe burns and died on the spot.
His family was later informed of the accident after his vehicle’s number plate was circulated.
The driver of the lorry involved in the collision sustained a fractured left leg and was admitted to the hospital, as confirmed by the police.
Colonel Gitahi had retired from military service but continued his career as a commercial pilot at Wilson Airport in Nairobi.
The burial ceremony brought together political leaders, aviation professionals, and military personnel who came to honor the contributions of the veteran pilot to the country.
Gitahi’s family, friends, and colleagues mourned his sudden demise, remembering him as a dedicated pilot and a patriot who served his country with distinction.
Notable political leaders in attendance included Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, ODM Secretary General and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, and Royal Media Services Chairman S.K. Macharia.
