More Trouble Looms For Governor Kahiga as UDA Announces Next Move After Remarks Over Raila Odinga's Death

Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has found himself in the middle of political backlash after making controversial remarks about the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s death.

Speaking at a burial ceremony on Tuesday, October 21, Governor Kahiga reportedly suggested that Raila’s passing was a divine intervention for the Mt. Kenya region — remarks that many Kenyans found deeply offensive.

According to reports seen by The Eastleigh Voice and later echoed by TUKO.co.ke, the governor’s comments sparked a nationwide uproar. 

Social media users, leaders, and members of the public condemned his statement, with some calling for his resignation as Vice Chairperson of the Council of Governors.

In response, United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Chairperson Cecily Mbarire announced that the ruling party will take disciplinary action against Kahiga. She clarified that the governor’s remarks do not reflect the values of the party or the government.

“Those remarks surprised everyone in the country,” Mbarire said during a press briefing. 

“As governors from Mt. Kenya East, we wish to state clearly that the comments by Governor Kahiga were his personal views. The National Cohesion and Integration Commission has already summoned him, and we as a party will also take our own action.”

Mbarire emphasized that contrary to Kahiga’s claim that the Mt. Kenya region has been sidelined, the region continues to benefit from the Kenya Kwanza administration under President William Ruto.
Condemnation from Fellow Leaders

Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki also criticized Kahiga’s comments, saying it was wrong to mock anyone’s death regardless of political differences.

“It doesn’t matter what kind of relationship you had with a person while they were alive,” said Njuki. 

“Our culture does not allow us to celebrate death, even of those we disagreed with. Life is a gift from God, and only He can take it away.”

Facing public outrage, Governor Kahiga later issued an apology to Raila Odinga’s family, including Ida, Winnie, and Ruth Odinga. In his statement shared on Facebook, the governor claimed his words had been misunderstood.

“I did not mean to celebrate anyone’s death,” he said. 

“I was referring to a biblical concept that God takes the best. I truly regret the pain my remarks may have caused the family and Kenyans at large.”

Kahiga also announced his decision to resign as the Vice Chair of the Council of Governors, saying he wanted to take responsibility for his statements. 

His move came after calls from leaders such as Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and Kisii Governor Simba Arati, who demanded his resignation and possible legal action.

The controversy has opened new political divisions within the UDA party, with some members urging forgiveness while others insist that disciplinary action is necessary to maintain public trust.

Political analysts believe the incident could affect the party’s image, especially in the Mt. Kenya region, where loyalty and respect for leadership traditions remain deeply rooted.

Meanwhile, Raila Odinga’s supporters have expressed pain over the remarks but praised Kahiga’s eventual apology. 

“We accept his apology, but leaders must be careful with their words,” said a supporter during a vigil in Bondo.