National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has called for forgiveness and humility among leaders, rebuking those who celebrated the illness of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga before his death.
Speaking during the funeral of Inspector General Douglas Kanja’s father in Laikipia, Ichung’wah urged Kenyans to show compassion and respect even in moments of political difference.
He insisted that leadership should be guided by humanity and service to others.
“I want to pray that may God forgive the Governor for Nyeri (Mutahi Kahiga). May God forgive those who were celebrating when our nationalist and pan-Africanist leader Raila Odinga was sick,” Ichung’wah said.
He reminded leaders that public service is temporary and should be exercised with humility, integrity, and a commitment to the common good.
“May God give them the wisdom to weigh their words. May God notify them that they are mortal beings like all of us and that for the time we are serving—whether in church, our families, or positions of leadership—we should serve in a way that makes our society better,” he added.
Ichung’wah’s remarks come amid heightened emotions across the country following Odinga’s passing, which has drawn tributes from political leaders, citizens, and international figures alike.
The Majority Leader, known for his strong political stance, struck a conciliatory tone, emphasizing unity and moral reflection in the wake of the national loss.
He said moments of grief should remind leaders and citizens alike of their shared humanity and the need to build a more compassionate society.
In the clip, Kahiga appeared to suggest that Odinga’s death had shifted national development priorities from the Mt. Kenya region to Nyanza, which drew public backlash.
Kahiga later clarified that his comments were personal opinions made during a funeral in his home village, and not meant to celebrate Odinga’s death.
He apologized to the Odinga family, the ODM fraternity, and Kenyans, describing the incident as “unfortunate and deeply regrettable.”
“I want to sincerely apologize to our mourning nation, to the family of the Right Honorable former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, Mama Ida, her children Rosemary, Junior and Winnie, honorable Senator Oburu Odinga, honorable MP Ruth Odinga, and the larger extended family, the ODM fraternity, and the Luo nation and Kenyans at large,” Kahiga said.
The Governor also clarified that his statements should not be seen as representing any community, political group, or the Council of Governors.
“The remarks I made are my personal views and therefore should in no way be associated with a community’s position or any political affiliation, nor the Council of Governors,” he said.
