The government has condemned remarks made by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, describing them as divisive, unpatriotic, and insensitive at a time when the nation is mourning the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the comments were “regrettable and extremely unfortunate,” particularly coming during a period of national grief for a leader he described as “a respected statesman and one of Kenya’s founding pillars of democracy.”
“The Government has noted with deep concern the unpatriotic remarks made by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga,” he said.
“Such utterances are not only regrettable but also extremely unfortunate, especially coming at a time when our nation is still mourning the death of Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga.”
Mwaura emphasized that under President William Ruto’s leadership, every part of the country is receiving equitable development, adding that the Head of State has consistently demonstrated inclusive leadership that transcends political divides.
“Under President William Samoei Ruto’s decisive leadership, every devolved unit gets its rightful share of the national cake,” he said.
“The President has risen above acrimonious politics, serving all Kenyans whether they voted for him or not and ensuring that no corner of this nation is left behind. That is a show of true leadership anchored in national unity, inclusivity, and people-centered governance.”
At what he termed a delicate time of national mourning, the government spokesperson urged political leaders to avoid hate speech and inflammatory rhetoric.
“We urge all leaders to refrain from the language of hate and embrace the spirit of one united Kenya,” he said. “Leaders may disagree and differ in opinions, but Kenya belongs to all of us.”
The government also welcomed Governor Kahiga’s resignation as vice chairman of the Council of Governors (CoG) following public backlash over his remarks.
Mwaura further called on the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to take firm action against leaders promoting division and ethnic animosity, citing Section 13 of the National Cohesion and Integration Act (NCIA).
He concluded by urging leaders across the political divide to honor Raila Odinga’s legacy “by promoting peace, unity, and dignity among all Kenyans.”
