NAIROBI -Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has found himself at the centre of a political storm after comments he made about the late Raila Odinga triggered outrage across Kenya.
A video circulating online shows the governor speaking in Kikuyu during a funeral in Nyeri County, where he appeared to suggest that the death of the opposition leader might bring political advantage to the Mt Kenya region.
“All goodies were being directed there because of tomorrow’s plans,” Kahiga said, referring to Raila’s political influence. “But God came and brought this thing… He saw up there that people in heaven were disagreeing a lot and came for Baba so that he can go and smooth things up there.”
The comments, captured in a short clip that quickly spread on social media, were widely condemned as disrespectful and insensitive.
Condemnation From All Sides
Leaders from across the political divide expressed anger at the remarks.
Raila’s sister, Ruth Odinga, wrote on Facebook, “A whole governor! Shame on you!”
Narok Senator Ledama Olekina said the comments were “unacceptable and do not reflect our national values of respect and unity.”
Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui called the remarks “regrettable and unfortunate,” describing them as “a reflection of the small-minded politics Kenya should be moving past.”
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei went further, calling the remarks “ungodly, un-African, uncouth and bordering on witchcraft.” He demanded a public apology.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, which Raila led for decades, urged forgiveness. “We wish to pray for the Governor of Nyeri, Mutahi Kahiga, that God forgives him for the utterances he made on the passing of our leader,” the party said in a statement.
A Sensitive Time for the Country
Raila Odinga, Kenya’s long-time opposition chief and a former prime minister, died of cardiac arrest on 15 October 2025 while undergoing treatment in India. His funeral in Bondo, Siaya County, drew national and international attention, with leaders describing him as a statesman and a champion of democracy.
In that emotional atmosphere, Kahiga’s words hit a raw nerve. Many Kenyans viewed them as an attempt to politicise a moment of collective grief.
The backlash has since grown beyond social media. The Council of Governors is reportedly reviewing the incident, with some members suggesting that the remarks violated the leadership and integrity standards expected of public officials.
At the time of writing, Governor Kahiga had not issued a formal apology. His office has remained silent despite mounting calls for him to explain his statement.
Political analyst David Makali said the controversy reflects a wider challenge in Kenya’s politics: “Our leaders often forget that words matter. In times of mourning, empathy is a test of leadership. Governor Kahiga failed that test.”
While some of Kahiga’s supporters argue he was highlighting long-standing frustrations over regional development, critics say his timing and tone were indefensible.
Kenya, still mourning a man many considered a symbol of national unity, now finds itself once again confronting the divisions that Raila Odinga spent his life trying to bridge.
And for Governor Kahiga, the storm shows no sign of passing soon.
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