Governor Kahiga in Trouble for Mocking Raila’s death, Urgent Meeting Called by CoG

The Council of Governors (CoG) has called for an urgent extraordinary meeting this morning, Wednesday, October 22, to deliberate on the controversial remarks made by its Vice Chair and Nyeri Governor, Mutahi Kahiga, which have sparked widespread outrage across the country.

The meeting, announced by CoG Chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi on Tuesday evening, seeks to address Kahiga’s statements that appeared to politicize and mock the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Abdullahi termed the remarks “unfortunate and deeply regrettable,” noting that they do not reflect the collective values of the Council.

“In light of the above, I have convened an urgent Extra-Ordinary Council Meeting to be held tomorrow morning to deliberate on these unfortunate utterances, and further statements will follow,” Abdullahi said in his statement.

Background: Kahiga’s Controversial Remarks

Governor Kahiga came under fire earlier this week after a video emerged of him speaking in his vernacular language during a burial ceremony in Nyeri, where he allegedly suggested that Raila Odinga’s death was part of “God’s plan” for the Mt. Kenya region to reclaim access to state resources that had been “diverted elsewhere.”

His remarks were widely condemned as insensitive and politically charged, sparking backlash from leaders across the political divide and from the public.

Many viewed the comments as disrespectful to the late Odinga, who passed away last week on Wednesday, and whose burial drew nationwide attention and tributes from global leaders.

In the viral clip, Kahiga’s tone and wording were interpreted as mocking, drawing outrage and demands for accountability.

Council’s Response

In its statement, the Council of Governors distanced itself from Kahiga’s comments, calling them “reckless, insensitive, sad, and unfortunate.”

“As the Council of Governors, we wish to disassociate in toto with the sentiments of Governor Kahiga and note that those are personal remarks that do not reflect or represent the views of the Council of Governors,” the statement read.

The Council emphasized that Raila Odinga was a respected national figure whose political legacy and service to Kenya transcended party lines.

“It is inhumane and unacceptable to celebrate his death on account of perceived political calculations. Raila Odinga was and will forever remain a Statesman whose contributions are embedded in the annals of our country’s history,” the statement continued.

Possible Disciplinary Action

Today’s extraordinary meeting is expected to deliberate on what disciplinary measures to take against Governor Kahiga, including possible censure or suspension from his role as CoG Vice Chair. Sources within the Council indicate that members are under pressure to take a firm stand to preserve the integrity and unity of the institution.

Political analysts have also weighed in, noting that the CoG’s swift response reflects the growing sensitivity around national unity and respect for leaders in moments of mourning.

As the nation continues to pay tribute to Raila Odinga, the Council’s actions today are likely to set a precedent on accountability among public officials for statements that could inflame divisions or disrespect national figures.