The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leadership has come out strongly to condemn Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga over remarks he made, appearing to celebrate the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o have both described Kahiga’s comments as “irresponsible, insensitive, and a disgrace to public leadership,” urging accountability and a public apology from the Nyeri County boss.
Sifuna: “Baba Would Have Responded with Love”
In a strongly worded statement, ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna expressed deep disappointment at Governor Kahiga’s utterances, saying that even those who may have disagreed with Raila Odinga in life should have the decency to respect his passing.
“We know there are those who hated Baba, but it’s still shocking to hear it. Mutahi Kahiga is easily the vilest of the bunch, but Baba taught us to always respond with love,” said Sifuna.
“If he were still around, the next thing you would see is him having lunch with Kahiga.”
Sifuna added that Raila Odinga’s legacy was built on forgiveness, peace, and national unity, virtues that must continue to guide Kenya’s political culture even in moments of division.
Nyong’o: “Utterly Irresponsible and a Recipe for Provocation”
Governor Nyong’o echoed similar sentiments, describing Kahiga’s remarks as a “dangerous recipe for provocation” that undermines efforts toward national cohesion and mutual respect among Kenyans.
“The statement attributed to Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga on the passing on of Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, whether made in jest or with political intention, is utterly irresponsible, deeply disrespectful, and a dangerous recipe for provocation,” Nyong’o said.
He added that, as an elected leader and Vice Chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG), Kahiga’s conduct was an embarrassment to the values of leadership and a breach of public trust.
“Governor Kahiga’s statement is a clear indication of a serious lapse of judgment and extreme abuse of the office he is elected to sit in. As a leader, he should hold himself to higher standards—upholding dignity, promoting peace, and respecting all Kenyans regardless of tribe or political affiliation,” Nyong’o emphasized.
Call for Action and Accountability
Nyong’o further called on the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) and other relevant state agencies to take “decisive and swift action” against Governor Kahiga to prevent similar acts in future.
“We demand an unequivocal public apology from Governor Mutahi. Kenya deserves better than this, Mr. Mutahi. Our democracy cannot grow in a space where people entrusted with leadership positions take cohesion and national stability for granted,” he stated.
Both Nyong’o and Sifuna underscored that Raila Odinga’s passing should be a moment of reflection and unity for the nation—not an opportunity for political point-scoring or ethnic provocation.
As calls for Kahiga’s resignation from the CoG vice-chair position grow louder, pressure is mounting on national institutions to act firmly against leaders who exploit sensitive moments for political mileage.
MP Babu Owino added; "I unequivocally condemn the reckless and disturbing utterances made by Kahiga Mutahi. Such statements are unacceptable and must not be tolerated,".
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