The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has summoned Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga to record a statement over his recent remarks concerning the death of opposition leader Raila Odinga. Kahiga’s comments, which implied that Odinga’s passing was “God’s plan” to benefit the Mt Kenya region, have sparked widespread condemnation across the country.
Governor Kahiga claimed that the political alliance between President William Ruto and the late Odinga had shifted government development priorities towards the Nyanza region, disadvantaging Mt Kenya counties. His remarks quickly went viral, prompting outrage from political leaders, citizens, and civil society groups who termed the statements as insensitive and divisive.
In a strongly worded statement, NCIC said Kahiga’s utterances dishonoured the memory of a national leader and risked fuelling ethnic tensions at a time when the nation is mourning.
“Such statements do not only dishonour the memory of a national hero but also have the potential to ignite ethnic tension and social discord,” NCIC stated.
The Commission commended the Council of Governors (CoG) for distancing itself from Kahiga’s remarks and removing him from his position as Vice Chair. According to NCIC, this move demonstrates responsible leadership and commitment to unity and inclusivity in governance.
Kahiga has since issued an apology to Raila Odinga’s family, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), and residents of the Nyanza region.
“I want to apologise to the family, the larger ODM, my colleagues and those in the larger Nyanza region. My remarks are personal and not representative of the people of Nyeri or the Council of Governors,” he said.
ODM officials, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, and Nyeri leaders have joined in condemning Kahiga’s remarks, urging leaders to exercise restraint and sensitivity during the mourning period.
NCIC reiterated its appeal for calm, tolerance, and unity, emphasizing that Raila Odinga’s legacy of democracy, peace, and justice must continue to inspire the nation.
