Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has resigned as the Vice Chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG) following widespread public outrage over his controversial remarks on the death of former Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, EGH.
Kahiga announced his resignation on Wednesday morning, hours after the Council of Governors, led by its Chairperson H.E. Ahmed Abdullahi, EGH, condemned his comments as “insensitive, inhumane, and unacceptable.”
In a statement released through his office, Kahiga expressed deep regret over his utterances, admitting that his words were “misinterpreted and made at an emotionally charged moment.” He extended an apology to the Odinga family and all Kenyans who felt offended.
“I take full responsibility for my remarks and sincerely apologize to the family of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga and all Kenyans. My words were unfortunate, and I deeply regret any pain they may have caused,” the governor said.
“I have since tendered my resignation as Vice Chairperson of the Council of Governors to allow space for healing and reflection.”
The controversy stemmed from a funeral address in Karundas, Kieni East Sub-County, where Kahiga made comments perceived as celebrating Raila Odinga’s passing. The remarks quickly went viral on social media, prompting widespread condemnation from leaders and citizens alike.
During the event — the burial of 90-year-old Beatrice Wairimu Mbarire (Mama Guara) — Kahiga had captioned his original post “In Celebration of a Life of Purpose”, but part of his speech drew criticism for appearing to politicize a moment of mourning.
Following the uproar, the Council of Governors disassociated itself from his sentiments and announced an Extra-Ordinary Meeting to deliberate on the issue.
“We wish to disassociate in toto with the sentiments of Governor Kahiga and note that those are personal remarks that do not represent the views of the Council of Governors,” said CoG Chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi in an earlier statement.
“It is inhumane and unacceptable to celebrate the death of any Kenyan on account of political calculations.”
Abdullahi also led fellow governors in signing the condolence book for Raila Odinga at the CoG headquarters in Nairobi, describing the late statesman as “a forthright leader, patriot, and father of devolution whose courage and vision shaped Kenya’s democratic journey.”
As reactions continue to pour in, political observers have lauded Kahiga’s decision to step down as a “necessary act of accountability.” However, others insist that disciplinary measures should still be pursued by the Council to set a precedent against leaders’ reckless public utterances.
The Council of Governors is expected to meet Wednesday morning to formally receive Kahiga’s resignation and issue a consolidated position on the matter.
