Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has publicly apologised following backlash over comments he made about the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, clarifying that his remarks were misinterpreted and never intended to celebrate the opposition leader’s death.
Speaking on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, Kahiga said his words were taken out of context from a video clip recorded during a burial ceremony in his home village. He explained that his statement—originally meant to reflect on governance and development under the current administration—had been twisted online, causing national outrage.
“God takes the best,” Kahiga said, adding that his comments were about leadership and national direction, not Raila’s passing. “The clip circulating on social media was taken out of context.”
In a heartfelt apology, the governor expressed regret to Raila Odinga’s family, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) fraternity, the Luo community, and all Kenyans who felt offended by his remarks.
“From the very onset, I want to sincerely apologise to our mourning nation, to the family of the late Raila Amolo Odinga—Mama Ida, her children Rosemary, Junior, and Winnie, Senator Oburu Odinga, MP Ruth Odinga, and the extended Odinga family—for any pain my words may have caused,” he said.
Kahiga also extended his apology to leaders across the political divide, emphasising that his comments were personal reflections and not representative of his community, political allies, or the Council of Governors (CoG).
“The loss of the Right Honourable former Prime Minister sent everyone back to the drawing board. It was in that context that I made the remarks in vernacular,” he clarified.
Acknowledging the weight of the controversy, Kahiga announced his resignation as Vice-Chair of the Council of Governors, citing accountability and respect for the national mood.
“I take full responsibility for the real and perceived meaning of my remarks. With immediate effect, I am stepping down as Vice-Chair of the Council of Governors. I pray that the soul of the late Prime Minister Raila Odinga continues to rest in eternal peace. God bless Kenya,” he stated.
Kahiga’s apology follows days of intense criticism from leaders across the political spectrum, including members of ODM, UDA, and CoG, who had earlier termed his comments as insensitive and unbecoming of a public officer.
