The government has issued a stern warning to politicians against making divisive or ethnically charged remarks, following controversial comments by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga regarding the late Raila Odinga.
In a statement on Wednesday, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura condemned Kahiga’s remarks as “unpatriotic, regrettable, and extremely unfortunate,” noting that such statements undermine national unity during a period of mourning.
“We condemn such divisive, insensitive, and disrespectful remarks,” said Mwaura. “At this delicate time of national grief, leaders should refrain from inflammatory rhetoric and instead embrace the spirit of unity.”
Mwaura hailed Raila Odinga as a “respected statesman” and urged political leaders to honor his memory by promoting peace, tolerance, and national cohesion. He emphasized that under President William Ruto’s leadership, all counties continue to receive their fair share of national resources without discrimination.
“President Ruto has risen above acrimonious politics, serving all Kenyans, whether they voted for him or not,” he said. “That is true leadership anchored in unity, inclusivity, and people-centered service.”
The government spokesperson also welcomed Governor Kahiga’s resignation as the vice chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG), describing it as a responsible and appropriate move.
At the same time, Mwaura called on the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to take stern action against leaders spreading hate speech or ethnic division, citing Section 13 of the National Cohesion and Integration Act.
Kahiga has since apologised for his comments made during a funeral in Nyeri, where he suggested that government development priorities had shifted toward the Nyanza region.
“I sincerely apologise to the family of Raila Odinga and the nation at large,” Kahiga said, before announcing his resignation from the CoG position.
Mwaura concluded by urging leaders to use this moment to foster unity: “Kenya belongs to all of us. Let us strengthen our unity and uphold the values of our Constitution.”
