Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has officially resigned as Vice-Chair of the Council of Governors (CoG) and issued a public apology following widespread backlash over remarks perceived to have celebrated the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Speaking on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, Governor Kahiga extended a heartfelt apology to Raila Odinga’s family, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), the Luo community, and Kenyans at large.
“From the very onset, I want to sincerely apologise to our mourning nation, to the family of the Right Honourable former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga… for any harm that it has elicited,” Kahiga said.
The governor clarified that his comments made in his native language had been misinterpreted, stressing that they were not intended to celebrate Raila Odinga’s death. He explained that his statement had been contextual, reflecting on Kenya’s political and developmental challenges and the broader implications of Odinga’s passing on national governance and planning.
“As the saying goes, God takes the best. It was in this context that I made those remarks,” he said.
Kahiga further emphasized that his views were personal and did not represent any political party, community, or the Council of Governors.
Acknowledging the public outrage and the pain his remarks had caused, the governor said he was taking full responsibility and stepping down from his CoG leadership position with immediate effect.
“I am taking responsibility for the real and perceived meaning of my remarks. As a result, I have decided to step down as the Vice-Chair of the Council of Governors,” Kahiga announced.
In his closing statement, Kahiga called for national unity and healing, offering prayers for the late Raila Odinga.
“I pray that the soul of the Right Honourable Raila Odinga continues to rest in eternal peace. God bless Kenya,” he said.
Kahiga’s resignation follows mounting pressure from leaders across the political divide, including ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga, who had publicly demanded his resignation from the CoG leadership post.
