Karen Nyamu Distances Herself from Mutahi Kahiga’s Controversial Raila Remarks

Nairobi Senator Karen Nyamu has publicly condemned Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga’s recent comments regarding the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing them as “madness” and urging the Mt. Kenya community to disassociate from them. Kahiga had sparked widespread outrage after suggesting that Odinga’s death had disrupted political arrangements, benefiting the Mt. Kenya region at the expense of others.

Speaking at a funeral in Nyeri, Kahiga implied that Raila had previously blocked development projects from reaching Mt. Kenya, while prioritizing other regions. He further framed the former Prime Minister’s passing as a divine act that reset the political landscape, compelling politicians, including President William Ruto, to rethink their strategies ahead of the 2027 General Election. The remarks, delivered in a highly public setting, drew sharp criticism from ordinary Kenyans and political leaders alike.

Responding to the controversy, Nyamu took to social media on Wednesday, October 22, sharing a photograph of herself looking at her phone while denouncing Kahiga’s statements. She expressed support for Mount Kenya residents who spoke out against the governor’s remarks, reinforcing that neither she nor the region aligns with such views. “I’m happy to see my people of Mount Kenya condemning the weird utterances by that governor. We do not associate ourselves with such madness,” she wrote, signaling a clear stance against Kahiga’s comments.

Nyamu’s intervention has resonated with many Kenyans, who took to online platforms to voice their reactions. Commenters highlighted the inappropriateness of Kahiga’s statements, noting the sensitive timing and setting. Tony Rúrúng’a remarked, “He shouted where he was supposed to whisper,” while Ketter Geofrey questioned whether Kahiga was speaking on behalf of all governors. Others, like Julius Kanyiri Kihungi, criticized the governor for echoing ideas blindly and Destiny Emeka expressed disbelief that such comments were made at a funeral, observing, “And imagine not shouting about it in church or a meeting but at another funeral and people are clapping.”

As the political debate continues to unfold, Nyamu’s swift response underscores the growing call among leaders and citizens alike for decorum, respect and sensitivity in public discourse, especially when addressing matters involving national figures and mourning periods.