Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga Resigns As CoG Vice Chair Amid Backlash Over Odinga Remarks
Politics Updated: 22 October 2025 12:34 EAT
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has resigned as the vice chairperson of the Council of Governors following public outrage over comments he made regarding the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. His remarks, made at a funeral in Nyeri, were widely condemned as insensitive and divisive.
Kahiga said that Odinga’s death was “God’s plan” and suggested that resources previously directed to Nyanza region would return to Mt Kenya. The statement sparked national outrage, prompting leaders, citizens, and institutions to demand accountability. In response, the Council of Governors distanced itself from the remarks and initiated his removal from the position.
The governor has since issued a public apology to the Odinga family, the Luo community, the ODM party, and Kenyans at large. He clarified that the remarks were his personal views and not those of the people of Nyeri or the Council of Governors. He also denied celebrating Odinga’s death, explaining that his words had been misinterpreted.
The Council of Governors condemned the statement, terming it unacceptable during a period of national mourning. Kahiga’s resignation is seen as a move to ease tensions as the country continues to pay tribute to the late opposition leader.
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FELIX MAKONA
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