Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has been at the center of public debate since Tuesday evening after allegedly making controversial remarks about the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The governor sparked nationwide outrage after a video surfaced showing him making remarks that many perceived he meant
that the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga would now “free” government
resources for the Mt Kenya region.
"The plan that had been hatched, if you look keenly, for you who do not travel, because I was in that region, all goodies were being directed there because of tomorrow’s plans, because it seemed like they did away with us, but God came and brought this thing," Kahiga said in vernacular.
"So now people have been told to go back to the drawing board because the plan that was there was probably to throw us out. But who is God? Does he take ugali at somebody’s house or sleep in Kayole? He came through in his own way. He saw up there people in heaven are disagreeing a lot and came for Baba so that he can go and smooth things up there."
The governor’s remarks were met with sharp criticism from leaders across the political spectrum, who accused him of using a moment of national mourning for political gain.
Raila’s sister, Ruth Odinga, expressed her disappointment in a Facebook post, saying, “A whole governor! Shame on you!”
Narok Senator Ledama Olekina condemned the remarks, saying, “Governor Kahiga’s comments are unacceptable and do not reflect our national values of respect and unity. Regardless of political differences, leaders must uphold the dignity of those who have passed and promote peace among all communities.”
Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui also criticized Kahiga’s statement, calling it “regrettable and most unfortunate,” adding that it “reflects a narrow mindset that thrives on isolation as a survival strategy.”
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party urged forgiveness, stating, “We wish to pray for the Governor of Nyeri Mutahi Kahiga that God forgives him for the utterances he made on the passing of our Leader.”
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei demanded a public apology, describing Kahiga’s remarks as “ungodly, un-African, uncouth, and bordering on witchcraft.”
Raila Odinga, who died of cardiac arrest on October 15 while receiving treatment in India, was laid to rest on Sunday, October 18, 2025.
Raila had developed a working relationship with President Ruto after years of political rivalry, a move that saw his close allies appointed to government positions.
