Nairobi (KAAB TV) – The Council of Governors has called for an emergency meeting to deliberate on remarks made by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, which the council has described as “disrespectful and insensitive” to the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga.
Odinga, a revered national leader and former Prime Minister, passed away last week while receiving treatment in India.
His burial took place on Sunday in his rural home in Bondo, Siaya County, amid an outpouring of grief from Kenyans and international dignitaries.
Governor Kahiga, while addressing mourners at a funeral in Kieni, reportedly made statements in Kikuyu alleging that the Mt. Kenya region had been sidelined in matters of development in favor of the Nyanza region—Odinga’s home turf.
He further remarked that Odinga’s death had “taken even the Head of State back to the drawing board,” implying that his demise would alter the country’s political dynamics.
The comments, which have since gone viral on social media, have drawn widespread condemnation from leaders across the political divide, who described them as ill-timed and disrespectful to the memory of a national icon.
Council of Governors Chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi, who is also the Governor of Wajir County, issued a statement on behalf of all county chiefs, disassociating the council from Kahiga’s utterances.
“It is inhumane and unacceptable to celebrate the death of any person, least of all a statesman of Raila Odinga’s stature, on account of perceived political calculations,” Governor Abdullahi said.
“His Excellency Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga was and will forever remain a statesman whose contributions to Kenya’s democracy and devolution are deeply embedded in the annals of our nation’s history,” he added.
Governor Abdullahi further noted that Odinga played a pivotal role in championing devolution, a system of governance that continues to empower counties and promote equitable development across Kenya.
Odinga’s party, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), also issued a strong statement condemning Governor Kahiga’s remarks.
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, a senior ODM member, described Odinga as “a unifying figure whose vision transcended ethnic and political boundaries.”
“Raila Odinga’s legacy of unity, democracy, and justice must be jealously guarded. His passing should bring us together, not divide us,” said Governor Nassir.
Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, a prominent leader from the Mt. Kenya region, clarified that Kahiga’s statements were personal opinions and did not reflect the collective position of the region’s leadership or residents.
“Those remarks do not represent the views of the Mt. Kenya people. We recognize Raila Odinga’s immense contribution to Kenya’s political and democratic development,” Waiguru said.
Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, who also serves as the Chairperson of the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, described Kahiga’s comments as “reckless and profoundly disrespectful.”
“At a time when the country is mourning a national hero, such statements are both careless and unacceptable. Governor Kahiga should issue a public apology immediately,” Mbarire stated in a message shared on her social media pages.
Kenyans across the political spectrum continue to mourn the passing of Raila Odinga, who for decades was at the center of Kenya’s struggle for democracy, constitutional reforms, and national unity.
His death has united leaders and citizens in reflecting on his immense contribution to the nation.
As the country continues to pay tribute to Odinga, the Council of Governors has emphasized the importance of upholding respect, unity, and decorum in public discourse—particularly during moments of national mourning.