The Council of Governors (CoG) has called for an extraordinary meeting after Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga sparked nationwide outrage by describing the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga as a “blessing in disguise” for the Mt. Kenya region.
Kahiga’s comments, made during a public burial ceremony in Laikipia County on Tuesday, were swiftly condemned as reckless, insensitive, and dangerously divisive. In a video that circulated widely online, the governor suggested that Odinga’s passing would allow the national government to redirect resources from Nyanza to Central Kenya.
“You can see what had been planned, but God brought something up. Now it’s total confusion… God came and brought this thing,” Kahiga said, referring to Odinga’s death.
CoG Distances Itself, Plans Disciplinary Action
In a strongly worded statement released Tuesday evening, the Council of Governors distanced itself from Kahiga’s remarks, labeling them “reckless, insensitive, sad and unfortunate.” CoG Chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi announced that an urgent extraordinary meeting would take place on Wednesday, October 22, to deliberate on possible disciplinary measures.
“It is inhumane and unacceptable to celebrate his death on account of perceived political calculations,” the Council stated. “Raila Odinga was and will forever remain a Statesman whose contributions are embedded in the annals of our country’s history.”
The CoG emphasized that Kahiga’s views were personal and did not reflect the position of the Council or county leadership nationwide.
National Outrage and Calls for Accountability
Kahiga’s remarks triggered immediate backlash from across the political spectrum. Cabinet members, fellow governors, and opposition leaders united in condemning the governor’s comments, accusing him of exploiting tragedy for political gain and disrespecting the memory of a national figure.
Many leaders reminded the public that Odinga had dedicated his life to fighting for democracy and justice in Kenya, making his death a national loss rather than a regional victory.
Pressure is now mounting on Kahiga to issue a public apology, with calls for formal censure growing louder. Political analysts suggest the controversy could isolate the governor within the Mt. Kenya political leadership and damage his prospects in future elections.
A Test for Political Decency
The extraordinary CoG meeting marks a critical moment for accountability in Kenyan leadership, reinforcing that public officials must weigh their words carefully and maintain respect even amid political differences.
As the country continues to mourn Raila Odinga, the incident has ignited a broader conversation about the need for maturity, empathy, and national unity in political discourse. The Council’s expected statement on Wednesday will be closely watched as an indicator of Kenya’s tolerance for rhetoric that threatens social cohesion.
