Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has come under intense public scrutiny after making controversial remarks about the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.
In a video that went viral on the evening of Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Kahiga—speaking in his native Kikuyu language during a funeral ceremony—appeared to suggest that Odinga’s passing was a positive development for the Mount Kenya region.
Controversial Remarks Spark Outrage
In his speech, the governor referred to Odinga’s death as a “blessing in disguise,” claiming it would free up government resources for the Central region. He argued that the political alliance between Odinga and President William Ruto had previously shifted national development priorities toward the Nyanza region.
“For those who have not traveled there, all the goodies were going that way because of tomorrow’s plans. It seemed like they had forgotten us—but God came and changed things,” Kahiga was heard saying in the viral clip.
The comments, which were interpreted as celebratory in tone, provoked outrage from Kenyans across the political divide, who condemned the governor for speaking insensitively about the death of a national figure.
Context: A Nation in Mourning
The remarks came just days after the burial of Raila Odinga, a revered opposition leader and former prime minister whose influence shaped Kenya’s political history for decades.
Odinga passed away on October 15 in Kerala, India, where he had been receiving medical treatment. His death triggered an outpouring of grief and tributes both locally and internationally, with leaders praising his lifelong commitment to democracy and reform.
Political Fallout and Institutional Response
The Council of Governors (CoG) swiftly distanced itself from Kahiga’s statement, describing it as “reckless, insensitive, and deeply unfortunate.”
CoG Chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi announced that an Extra-Ordinary Council Meeting would be held on Wednesday, October 22, to discuss disciplinary action against the Nyeri governor.
“The Council disassociates itself entirely from the governor’s personal remarks, which do not reflect the values of the leadership we stand for,” read a statement from the CoG.
Leaders Demand Accountability
Political leaders and public figures have strongly condemned Kahiga’s remarks. Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru termed the statement “callous and irresponsible,” asserting that it did not represent the views of Mount Kenya residents.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party released a statement expressing disappointment, urging Kahiga to seek forgiveness for his comments about the late Odinga.
Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui called the remarks “regrettable and most unfortunate,” while Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei demanded an apology, labeling them “ungodly, un-African, and unbecoming of a leader.”
Saboti MP Caleb Amisi also condemned the governor’s words, describing them as divisive and disrespectful to a man whose legacy transcended political lines.
Mounting Pressure
As public anger continues to mount, Governor Kahiga faces growing calls to apologize and clarify his remarks. Many Kenyans have urged political leaders to exercise restraint and uphold respect, especially in moments of national mourning.