The Council of Governors (CoG) has unanimously voted to remove Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga as its Vice Chairperson following widespread outrage over his controversial remarks regarding the late ODM leader Raila Odinga.
The decision came shortly after Kahiga announced his resignation during a special CoG meeting convened to address the fallout from his remarks, which were made at a burial ceremony in Nyeri. Kahiga was caught on camera making statements perceived as celebrating Raila’s death, prompting nationwide condemnation.
CoG Chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi confirmed the decision, saying the council acted in unity to protect the integrity of the institution. “The Council has unanimously agreed to remove Mutahi Kahiga from the position of Vice Chairperson with immediate effect. We will convene another meeting to elect a new Vice Chair,” Abdullahi said.
The governors expressed disappointment over Kahiga’s statements, emphasizing the need for leaders to exercise restraint and responsibility in their public utterances. “We dissociate ourselves entirely from these sentiments, which were untimely, reckless, and unspeakable, especially during a time of national mourning,” Abdullahi added.
During his apology, Kahiga expressed remorse and sought forgiveness from the Odinga family, the ODM fraternity, and Kenyans at large. “I sincerely apologise to our mourning nation, to Mama Ida Odinga and the entire Odinga family, and to all Kenyans for any pain my words may have caused,” he said.
He also clarified that his comments were misunderstood, saying he did not intend to cause harm. “What I meant was that Raila’s passing has reshaped the political landscape, prompting all leaders to re-evaluate their strategies ahead of 2027,” he explained.
Kahiga, who was serving his second term as CoG Vice Chair since his re-election on October 6, 2025, now exits the leadership role amid growing calls for accountability and decorum among political leaders.
