The controversy surrounding Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has sparked heated debate across the country at a time when Kenyans are still mourning the loss of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
During what should have been a period of unity and reflection, Kahiga’s remarks at a burial ceremony in Nyeri have angered many who saw his words as insensitive and divisive. Speaking in his native Kikuyu language, he appeared to suggest that Odinga’s death was part of God’s plan to redirect development back to the Mt Kenya region. His comments implied that the political agreement between President William Ruto and Odinga had unfairly favored Nyanza, and that with Odinga gone, things could now return to normal.
The video of Kahiga’s speech spread quickly online, causing widespread outrage. In one part, he said that God had “brought something up” to change the plans that had been made, adding that “all the goodies were going there because of future plans.” He even joked that Odinga had gone to heaven to sort out disagreements among angels.
For many Kenyans, this was not just a bad joke but a deeply offensive statement made during a national tragedy. It came at a time when the country was reflecting on the life of a man who had played a huge role in shaping Kenya’s democracy, and people felt that Kahiga’s words showed a lack of empathy and poor judgment.
The situation has been made worse by Kahiga’s close political relationship with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Kahiga has long been seen as one of Gachagua’s most loyal allies, defending him during his impeachment and consistently echoing his views about Mt Kenya’s interests. When Gachagua faced political battles with other leaders, Kahiga was one of the few who stood by him.
This latest controversy has drawn Gachagua back into the public eye, with many critics arguing that Kahiga’s behavior reflects the same brand of ethnic politics that Gachagua has been accused of encouraging. With the 2027 elections approaching, some believe Kahiga’s statements may have been an attempt to reignite regional political loyalty under the old alliances.
The backlash has been strong and widespread. Government officials and politicians from across the country condemned the remarks. East African Community Principal Secretary Dr. Caroline Karugu described Kahiga’s comments as “silly and deeply unfortunate,” urging leaders to show compassion. Nyandarua Senator John Methu accused him of walking hand in hand with recklessness, while Millicent Omanga said his words were reckless and risked stirring ethnic tensions. Even the ruling United Democratic Alliance issued a statement expressing disappointment, saying such language was unacceptable. Governors James Orengo, Anne Waiguru, and others also criticized Kahiga, with Orengo calling the remarks shameful and Waiguru labeling them an insult to a national hero.
This incident is not Kahiga’s first controversy. He has previously been forced to apologize over remarks about the Maasai community and has clashed with national officials over health policies. However, linking Odinga’s death to supposed political gains has drawn the harshest response yet. Online, Kenyans united under hashtags demanding his arrest, calling his words dangerous and divisive. Some noted with concern how sections of the audience at the burial seemed to cheer, reflecting how ethnic politics continues to divide communities.
Kahiga’s actions have also renewed public scrutiny on Rigathi Gachagua, who has remained silent on the matter and avoided appearing at Odinga’s funeral. Some view this as an attempt to avoid controversy, while others believe it reflects ongoing political tensions. Either way, the issue has exposed the fragile nature of Kenya’s political unity.
Raila Odinga’s death was meant to bring the country together in mourning and remembrance, but comments like Kahiga’s have instead reopened old wounds.
