Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga is facing mounting criticism from political leaders and civil society after his controversial remarks about the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Kahiga, speaking in Kikuyu during a burial ceremony in Nyeri, suggested that Raila’s death was “God’s plan” to allow the Mt. Kenya region to benefit from government resources — remarks that have been condemned as divisive, insensitive, and disrespectful to a nation in mourning.
“You guys can see what had been planned, but God brought something up. Now it’s total confusion. Everybody can see that. We did not harbour hate for anyone, but God came through for us,” the governor said.
NCIC Summons Kahiga Over Remarks
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has summoned Governor Kahiga to record a statement over his comments.
In a statement on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, the Commission said Kahiga’s remarks dishonoured the memory of a national hero and risked fuelling ethnic tension at a time when Kenyans are united in grief.
“Such statements do not only dishonour the memory of a national hero but also have the potential to ignite ethnic tension and social discord,” NCIC said.
The Commission praised the Council of Governors (CoG) for removing Kahiga from his position as Vice-Chairperson, saying it was a positive move that promotes responsible leadership.
“This highlights the importance of unity, inclusivity, and political decency,” the NCIC added.
The Commission has also urged calm and unity as Kenyans continue to mourn the late Raila Odinga.
Aukot Calls for Impeachment
Thirdway Alliance Party leader Ekuru Aukot has demanded Kahiga’s immediate impeachment, describing his conduct as “primitive and backward.”
“His conduct is unbecoming of a public officer and violates Chapter Six of the Constitution. He should be impeached immediately,” Aukot said during a Thursday TV interview.
He said such remarks undermine Kenya’s democratic values and set a bad example for public servants.
Sossion Warns Against Ethnic Politics
Former KNUT Secretary-General Wilson Sossion also condemned the remarks, saying they reflect the country’s ongoing struggle with negative ethnicity.
“Kahiga’s remarks on Raila’s death display a mix of wild behavior and deep shame. It is disturbing when such words come from leaders who should promote unity,” Sossion said.
He urged Kenyans to honour Raila’s memory by rejecting divisive politics and embracing unity, tolerance, and justice.
“As we celebrate Raila’s life, let us reflect on the dangers of negative ethnicity and move to criminalise such divisive conduct,” he added.
Following mounting pressure, Governor Kahiga apologised to the Odinga family, the ODM Party, and the Nyanza region, saying his remarks were personal and not representative of the people of Nyeri or the Council of Governors.
“I want to apologise to the family, the larger ODM, my colleagues, and those in the Nyanza region. My remarks were personal and not reflective of my county or the Council of Governors,” he said.
Despite the apology, public outrage continues, with several leaders and citizens calling for his resignation or removal from office.
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