Governor Kahiga Steps Down as CoG Vice-Chair Following Backlash Over Utterences on Raila's Death

Kenya, 22 October 2025 - Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has stepped down as the Vice-Chaiperson of the Council of Governors, following a backlash he has received over his utterances, allegedly celebrating the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

His resignation came shortly after the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders condemned his remarks stating that they were disturbing during this national mourning period.

Governor Kahiga’s comments, perceived as mocking the late opposition leader, came during a funeral in Mt Kenya and have sparked widespread backlash.

ODM chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga described Kahiga’s comments as “reckless, despicable, and unbecoming of a public officer,” accusing him of undermining the national mood of grief and reflection.

“Raila Odinga was more than a political leader—he was a statesman,” said Governor Wanga on Wednesday during a press briefing in Kisumu.

“To celebrate his death is to mock the very ideals that bind us together as a people.”

She was joined by Mathare MP Anthony Oluoch, Nyando MP Jared Okello, Kisumu County Assembly Speaker Elisha Oraro, ODM Kisumu Chairperson Seth Kanga, and several Members of the County Assembly.

The leaders called Kahiga’s remarks a “deep insult” to the Odinga family and to millions of Kenyans who viewed the fallen hero as a national icon.

However, Mr Kahiga clarified that the clip doing rounds was taken out of context.

"I want to sincerely apologize to our mourning nation, to the family of Rt Hon former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, Mama Ida Odinga, her children Rosemary, Junior, and Winnie, Senator Oburu Oginga, Hon MP Ruth Odinga, and other siblings, the ODM fraternity, the Luo Nation and Kenyans at large," said Governor Kahiga.

He also apologised to his colleague leaders from all sides of the political divide.

On whether the remarks had a celebratory tone, the Nyeri County boss said "no way".

"What I meant is that under the current broad-based government, we have seen skewed development and politically, the loss of the Rt Hon Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga sends everyone back to the drawing board," he said.

He added that, his remarks in vernacular were premised on the saying that "God takes the best".

Mr Kahiga noted that since his remarks have generated huge public interest, the most honourable thing to do is to step down with immediate effect at Vice Chair of CoG.

Odinga, who passed away earlier this week, was known for his decades-long role in Kenya’s political transformation, including the fight for multi-party democracy, constitutional reforms, and peace-building. His legacy cuts across political, ethnic, and regional boundaries.

Jared Okello, MP for Nyando, emphasized that their concern was not with the Kikuyu community, but with individuals he described as “surrogates” of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, claiming they are attempting to sow division within the political landscape.

“We have no problem with the Kikuyu nation. Our issue is with those pushing a divisive agenda,” said Okello.

“There will be no negotiation. [Raila] Odinga left us in government, and we are staying.”

The leaders reiterated their commitment to the current political alignment and dismissed any attempts to weaken ODM’s unity through inflammatory rhetoric.

MP Oluoch also condemned Governor Kahiga’s remarks, calling them “extremely disgraceful” and urging politicians to exercise restraint and empathy, particularly in moments of national sorrow.

“This is a time for unity, not mockery. It is a moment for leaders to rise above political rivalry and honour Odinga’s legacy of justice and equity,” said Mr Oluoch.

Political tensions have escalated because even before he resigned, Governor Wanga had urged the Council of Governors to convene urgently and remove Mr Kahiga from his position as vice-chair.

“Anybody associating with our enemies will be our enemy,” said Ms Wanga.

“Let us remain united in love, spirit, and resilience in honour of Raila Odinga.”

ODM leaders are now calling for higher standards of conduct from elected officials, urging all leaders—regardless of affiliation—to avoid inflammatory statements during this period of mourning.

The controversy surrounding Governor Kahiga’s remarks has also begun drawing the attention of civil society and religious leaders, indicating a broader national conversation about the tone and tenor of political discourse in Kenya.

As the country continues to mourn the passing of one of its most influential political figures, many are reflecting on the kind of leadership Kenya needs during times of collective pain.