Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga Resigns as CoG Vice Chair Following Backlash Over Remarks on Raila Odinga’s Death
He also apologized to political leaders across the divide, acknowledging that his words could have been emotionally painful and stirred up unnecessary tension.
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
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has stepped down as vice chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG) amid huge criticism of his recent comments, which were perceived by many as celebrating the alleged death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. His resignation comes on the eve of a CoG meeting that had been scheduled to debate the growing controversy surrounding his remark.
The anger began after a video clip appeared online of Governor Kahiga speaking at a funeral ceremony in his hometown village. In the video, he spoke words in his native language which the majority of Kenyans translated as mocking or gloating over the supposed death of the veteran opposition leader. The video became viral, and anger broke out across the political divide and among the populace.
In a press statement issued shortly after the furore, Kahiga apologized and expressed regret publicly, explaining that his remark had been misconstrued. I would like to apologize unreservedly to the bereaved nation, to the family of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga—Mama Ida, her children Rosemary, Junior and Winnie, Senator Oburu Oginga, Ruth Odinga, and the larger family—to the ODM family, the Luo community, and Kenyans at large,” he said. He also apologized to political leaders across the divide, acknowledging that his words could have been emotionally painful and stirred up unnecessary tension.
Governor Kahiga clarified that his statement was not in a celebratory mood but was an expression of the realigning political terrain that would follow the death of such a powerful national leader. “The video was taken when I was attending a funeral in my village, and I never meant to celebrate anyone’s death,” he explained. “What I meant was that in a broad-based government, we value competent leadership, and Raila’s death would definitely cause the political class to go back to the drawing board.”. As it is said, God takes the best, and that is the context in which my statement was issued.”
In spite of his explanation, the harm was already done, and political leaders, human rights activists, as well as members of the public, called for his resignation. According to many, a leader of his Caliber should be more sensitive, especially when speaking about matters of national unity and respect for political rivals.
By stepping down, Kahiga signalled that he wished to contribute towards restoring calm and upholding the dignity of the Council of Governors, in addition to reflecting on his words and their impact. His resignation is yet another reminder how public statements—especially by leaders—can quickly spiral into scandal in Kenya’s highly politicized environment.
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