The Council of Governors (CoG) has condemned remarks made by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, who appeared to gloat over the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed away on October 15, 2025.
In a statement, CoG Chair Ahmed Abdullahi distanced the council from Kahiga’s sentiments, stressing that the comments were personal and did not represent the position of the CoG “especially at this time of deep mourning.”
“We note that the comments are indeed reckless, insensitive, sad, and unfortunate. It is inhumane and unacceptable to celebrate his death on account of perceived political calculations,” Abdullahi said.
He described the late former Prime Minister as a Statesman whose legacy is firmly rooted in Kenya’s history.
“He was not only the architect and father of Devolution but its key protector and ardent supporter. He was a father, a husband, a grandfather, a brother and many things to many people. We as a nation owe him immense respect both in life and in death,” Abdullahi added.
The CoG chair revealed that they've convened an emergency meeting on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, to deliberate on the matter and issue a further directive.
Governor Kahiga, who also serves as the CoG Vice Chair, made the controversial remarks during a burial in Nyeri, suggesting that Raila’s death was “God’s plan” to “level the political field.”
His comments have since triggered widespread outrage across the political divide.
UDA Chairperson and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire joined in condemning Kahiga’s remarks, describing them as reckless and insensitive.
“At a time when our nation is mourning, such statements are not only careless but profoundly disrespectful, both to the memory of a statesman and to millions of Kenyans who are grieving his loss,” Mbarire said.
She urged Kahiga to apologise, saying leaders must rise above divisions and lead with empathy, respect, and unity as the nation mourns.
