NCIC Summons Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga Over Remarks on Raila Odinga’s Death
I wish to express my genuine regrets to the grieving nation, to Mama Ida Odinga, her children, and Kenyans at large,” Kahiga stated.
The commission also issued a stern warning to the public and political leaders, urging them to refrain from making statements that could inflame ethnic tensions. Photo/ Courtesy.
By Ruth Sang
National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has summoned Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga for his inflammatory remarks regarding the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The commission, in a statement released on Wednesday afternoon, criticized the governor for making ethnically and divisive remarks during a public rally, suggesting that his remarks were equivalent to celebrating Odinga’s death.
According to NCIC Chairperson Samuel Kobia, Kahiga’s remark was in contravention of Sections 13 and 62 of the NCIC Act that outlaw speech that promotes ethnic contempt, discrimination, or hate. The commission emphasized that such remarks have the potential to erode peace and harmony among Kenyans.
In its inquiry, the NCIC has invited the governor of Nyeri to appear before the commission at its premises, which is located in the 17th floor of Britam Towers, Upper Hill, Nairobi. During the session, he will be required to clarify the context and meaning of his statements, which were captured in a viral vernacular video.
NCIC has observed with serious alarm the reported statement by Governor Mutahi Kahiga on October 21, 2025, during a public address,” the commission said. “Following preliminary scrutiny, and in fulfillment of our constitutional and legal mandate, we have summoned the governor to meet us for further interrogation.”.
It also issued a stern warning to politicians and the public against uttering inflammatory statements that would incite ethnic conflict or divide communities. It reaffirmed its commitment to national cohesion and declared that any person who would be found culpable of hate speech, regardless of political position or influence, would be taken to court.
This follows shortly after Governor Kahiga’s resignation as vice chairperson of the Council of Governors. His resignation came after his statement elicited increased public outcry, which most people found insensitive.
During a press conference earlier on Wednesday, Kahiga publicly apologized to the Odinga family and to the nation, expressing remorse over causing confusion with his statement.
I wish to express my genuine regrets to the grieving nation, to Mama Ida Odinga, her children, the extended Odinga family, the ODM fraternity, Luo community, and Kenyans at large,” Kahiga stated.
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) governor clarified that the statements were not a reflection of the opinion of the Mount Kenya region but said in a local context and misunderstood by the public.
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