Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga Resigns from COG Vice Chair Amid Raila Remarks Backlash

Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has stepped down as Vice Chairperson of the Council of Governors (COG) after drawing widespread criticism for comments made about the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The remarks, delivered during a funeral in Nyeri on Tuesday, were interpreted by many as celebrating Odinga’s death, prompting public outrage and political condemnation.

Speaking in Kikuyu at the funeral, Kahiga suggested that the political alliance between President William Ruto and Raila Odinga had shifted government resources toward the Nyanza region, leaving Mt. Kenya disadvantaged. He described Odinga’s passing as “leveling the playing field,” forcing political leaders, including President Ruto, to rethink their strategies ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Kahiga said, “You can see the plans that had been made, but God intervened. Now there’s confusion, and everyone notices it. We never wished harm on anyone but God acted in our favor.” He portrayed the development as part of “God’s plan for the region,” claiming that previously, government benefits were being directed elsewhere due to political calculations.

Following the backlash, Kahiga issued a formal apology on Wednesday, emphasizing that his statements were personal opinions and did not represent the views of Nyeri residents or the Council of Governors. “I sincerely apologize to the family, the wider ODM community, my fellow governors and everyone in Nyanza,” he said.

He also announced his immediate resignation from the COG vice chair position, which he had held since October 6, 2025. “I accept full responsibility and resign with immediate effect as the vice chair of the Council of Governors,” Kahiga affirmed.

The incident underscores the sensitivity surrounding public commentary on national leaders, particularly during times of mourning. Political analysts argue that Kahiga’s remarks, linking Odinga’s death to regional political advantage, were poorly timed and risked straining inter-regional relations.

Kahiga’s resignation serves as a stark reminder to public figures about the consequences of their words, highlighting the need for restraint and respect in political discourse, especially in emotionally charged contexts.