The Council of Governors (CoG) has distanced itself from Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga over remarks he made during a funeral in Kieni East, which many Kenyans have condemned as insensitive and disrespectful following the death of former Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga.
In a video that has since gone viral, Governor Kahiga was addressing mourners during the burial of Mama Beatrice Wairimu Mbarire, popularly known as Mama Guara, at Karundas in Thegu River Ward, Kieni East Sub-County.
While the event was meant to celebrate the 90-year-old’s life of faith and service, a section of the Governor’s remarks appeared to make light of Odinga’s death, sparking nationwide outrage.
On Tuesday evening the Council of Governors released a hard-hitting statement condemning the utterances and disassociating from Kahiga’s sentiments.
“The Council of Governors registers its deep disappointment on the unfortunate utterances by Governor Kahiga Mutahi of Nyeri County,” read the statement signed by CoG Chairperson H.E. FCPA Ahmed Abdullahi.
“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, especially at this time of deep mourning.”
The council described the remarks as reckless, inhumane, and unacceptable, adding that it was wrong to celebrate the death of any Kenyan, let alone a national figure whose contribution to the country’s democratic and devolution journey was immense.
“It is inhumane and unacceptable to celebrate his death on account of perceived political calculations,” the statement added.
The CoG went on to honor the late Raila Odinga as a statesman, architect, and protector of devolution, saying his influence will remain deeply embedded in the nation’s history.
“He was a father, a husband, a grandfather, a brother, and many things to many people. As a nation, we owe him immense respect both in life and in death,” the statement read.
Chairman Abdullahi announced that an Extra-Ordinary Council Meeting would be convened to discuss the Governor’s remarks and determine the next course of action.
“In light of the above, I have convened an urgent Extra-Ordinary Council Meeting to deliberate on these unfortunate utterances and a further statement will follow,” he said.
Governor Kahiga has not yet issued a response to the backlash. However, the viral video — originally shared with the caption “In Celebration of a Life of Purpose” — has continued to attract sharp criticism from leaders and Kenyans online, with many calling for an official apology.
