NAIROBI, Kenya – Nyeri County Governor, H.E. Dr. Mwalimu Mutahi Kahiga, has resigned from his position as Vice Chair of the Council of Governors with immediate effect. This decisive move comes in the wake of a public outcry over a controversial vernacular clip circulating on social media, which featured remarks he made concerning the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
In a press statement dated 22nd October 2025, Governor Kahiga issued a sweeping apology for the harm caused by the clip, which was recorded at a burial in his home village.
A Sincere Apology to the Nation
Addressing a nation in mourning, Governor Kahiga extended his “sincere apologies” to the family of the late Raila Odinga, specifically mentioning Mama Ida Odinga, her children, siblings Oburu Odinga and Ruth Odinga, and the larger extended family.
He further apologized to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) fraternity, the Luo community, Kenyans at large, and his fellow leaders “from all sides of the political divide.”
Clarifying the “Misunderstood” Remarks
The Governor sought to clarify the context of his controversial statements, asserting that his remarks were “in no way celebratory.” He explained that his intended message was about the political and developmental landscape following the passing of the veteran opposition leader.
“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,” Kahiga stated.
He contextualized his comments by referencing the popular saying, ‘God takes the best,’ insisting that his vernacular remarks were made within this frame.
Taking Personal Responsibility
Emphatically, the Governor distanced any group or institution from his views, stating, “the remarks I made are my personal views and therefore should in no way be associated with a community’s position or any political affiliation nor the Council of Governors.”
However, acknowledging the “huge public interest” and the severity of the situation, Governor Kahiga chose to take full responsibility.
“I am taking responsibility of the real and perceived meaning of my remarks and as a result therefore, I have decided that with immediate effect to step down as the Vice Chair of the Council of Governors,” the statement concluded.
The Governor ended his address by wishing for the soul of the former Prime Minister to “continue resting in eternal peace.”
This resignation marks a significant moment in Kenya’s political scene, highlighting the sensitive nature of public discourse following the death of a national figure like Raila Odinga. Governor Kahiga retains his position as the Governor of Nyeri County.
About The Author
