Council of Governors Rejects Mutahi Kahiga’s Remarks, Confirms Resignation

The Council of Governors (CoG) has publicly denounced Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga following his controversial statements about the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing them as inappropriate and insensitive. The governor, who suggested that Odinga’s death benefited the Mt. Kenya region, formally resigned from his position as Vice Chairperson of the Council on Wednesday morning.

Speaking to journalists in Nairobi, CoG Chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi stressed that Kahiga’s comments were his own personal opinions and did not represent the stance of the Council. He confirmed that governors had unanimously removed him from the vice chair position and said a date for electing a replacement would be announced soon. “We express our deep disappointment in Governor Kahiga. His statements were untimely and unacceptable, particularly during a period of national mourning,” Abdullahi said. He also extended the Council’s condolences to the late Odinga’s family on behalf of Kenya’s 47 counties.

The controversy erupted after Kahiga spoke at a funeral in Nyeri, claiming in a viral video that political arrangements between President William Ruto and Odinga had diverted development resources to Nyanza, neglecting Mt. Kenya. He described Odinga’s passing as a divine act that “leveled the field” and forced political leaders to “go back to the drawing board.”

In his resignation letter, Kahiga apologized for the remarks, saying, “I apologize to the family, the broader ODM, my colleagues, and the people of Nyanza. My statements were personal and do not reflect the views of Nyeri residents or the Council of Governors. I take full responsibility and resign with immediate effect as vice chair of the Council.”

The remarks have drawn widespread condemnation from political figures and officials. East African Community Principal Secretary Dr. Caroline Karugu called the comments “silly and deeply regrettable,” while Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, who also chairs ODM, described them as “insensitive, primitive and insulting.”

Kahiga, who had been elected Vice Chair of the Council on October 6, 2025, now steps down amid criticism. The Council reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining decorum, unity and respect during this sensitive period of national mourning.