CS Kagwe Criticizes Governor Kahiga Over Remarks on Raila Odinga’s Death, Urges Respect and Restraint
Earlier on Wednesday, the Council of Governors (CoG) also removed Kahiga from the vice chairperson post after he resigned amid pressure.
The Cabinet Secretary's scathing criticism is on the backdrop of public and leaders' indignation over Governor Kahiga's words, who has also been criticized by fellow leaders. Photo/courtesy
By Ruth Sang
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has strongly condemned the statements made by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga regarding the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing them as highly offensive, insensitive, and politically backward.
Speaking during the opening of the 5th National Agribusiness Summit at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), Kagwe expressed his disappointment with the governor’s comments, adding that they belittled the Odinga family and the entire nation when the country was in mourning.
“Being the only Cabinet Secretary from Nyeri and formerly the Senator of the county, I wish to explain that we are also mourning,” Kagwe stated. “We mourn with the Odinga family and the people of Kenya. It is not only culturally unacceptable to talk negatively about the deceased, but it is also our traditions.”
He went on to indicate that such words have serious cultural implications, warning that the person who speaks negatively about the deceased will be forced to perform traditional rituals to avoid potential curses. “Such words are personal and do not reflect the norms of the people of Nyeri,” Kagwe added.
The CS also urged leaders from across the political divide to watch their words, adding that leadership demands humility and respect, especially in times of national mourning. “As leaders, we must think of what we say before we talk. Words that divide us rather than unite us have no place in our nation. They only serve to undermine the achievements we have made as a country,” he said.
Kagwe reiterated that Kahiga’s sentiments were his own and not the view of Nyeri people or the national government. He called on Kenyans to remain united and compassionate, particularly during moments of adversity. “Morally, it is wrong to utter such words. In our culture, and in humanity, we stand with people and sympathize when they are grieving,” Kagwe emphasized.
The Cabinet Secretary’s scathing criticism is on the backdrop of public and leaders’ indignation over Governor Kahiga’s words, who has also been criticized by fellow leaders. Several Nyeri leaders, including Senator Wahome Wamatinga and Members of Parliament Duncan Mathenge (Nyeri Town), Njoroge Wainaina (Kieni), Wambugu Wainaina (Othaya), and Eric Wamumbi (Mathira), have distanced themselves from the governor’s statement.
Earlier on Wednesday, the Council of Governors (CoG) also removed Kahiga from the vice chairperson post after he resigned amid pressure.
Governor Kahiga has already apologized to the Odinga family, ODM party, and the public, clarifying that his comments were personal and did not represent the view of Nyeri County or the CoG.
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