The Council of Governors (CoG) has called for an emergency meeting following the explosive remarks made by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga about the death of opposition leader Raila Odinga.
In a statement released late Tuesday evening, CoG Chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi said the council was deeply concerned about Governor Kahiga’s comments, describing them as unfortunate and unrepresentative of the council’s position.
Abdullahi said the extraordinary meeting would be held Wednesday morning to deliberate on the matter and issue a formal position after the discussions.
“The Council of Governors distances itself from Governor Mutahi Kahiga’s statements. Those are his personal views and do not reflect the stance of the Council,” the statement read.
Governor Kahiga, who also serves as CoG Vice-Chairperson, sparked widespread outrage after a video emerged showing him claiming that the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga was an answered prayer for the Mt Kenya region.
Speaking during a funeral service in Nyeri, Kahiga alleged that President William Ruto had been diverting national resources to the Nyanza region at the expense of the Kikuyu community.
His comments drew swift condemnation from political leaders, civil society groups, and members of the public, who described them as divisive and disrespectful during a period of national mourning.
Leaders from the late Raila Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, including Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and former Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui, jointly condemned Kahiga’s remarks.
They said the statement was not only insensitive but also undermined national unity and reconciliation efforts following Raila Odinga’s passing on October 15.
“The statement attributed to Governor Kahiga is regrettable and most unfortunate. It reflects a narrow mindset that thrives on isolation as a survival strategy. It neither captures the national mood nor adds value to a nation in mourning,” Kinyanjui said in a press release.
Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire also disassociated themselves from the remarks, calling on leaders to demonstrate empathy and restraint during this sensitive time.
“Kenya needs healing, not hatred. Every leader must measure their words carefully to preserve the dignity of the offices they hold,” Waiguru stated.
Civil society organizations have also joined the growing chorus of condemnation. The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) said Kahiga’s comments amounted to hate speech and called on the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) to investigate.
“We cannot allow leaders to use moments of tragedy to inflame tribal divisions. Such rhetoric goes against the spirit of the Constitution and the principles of unity,” KHRC Executive Director Davis Malombe said.
Former Chief Justice David Maraga also weighed in, reminding public officers of their constitutional duty to uphold dignity and integrity in office.
“As guided by the Ukatiba Philosophy, we remind Governor Mutahi Kahiga that Article 73(1) of the Constitution requires every state officer to demonstrate respect for the people, bring honor to the nation, and promote dignity in their office,” Maraga said.
He added that leaders must use their platforms to foster peace and respect, not division or hate.
Political analysts have described the remarks as politically reckless, warning that they could damage inter-regional relations and undermine the delicate balance of national unity.
Several members of Parliament from both sides of the political divide have called for disciplinary action within the Council of Governors and a formal apology from Kahiga.
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission said it was reviewing the footage and would take appropriate action if the comments were found to violate cohesion laws.
Meanwhile, ODM youth groups in Kisumu and Homa Bay held peaceful demonstrations demanding an apology from the Nyeri Governor.
They said Raila Odinga was a national figure whose legacy must be respected, regardless of political affiliations.
Governor Kahiga has not issued an apology or clarification since the controversy erupted, though sources within Nyeri County Government said he might address the matter after the CoG meeting.
As the Council of Governors prepares for the emergency session, pressure continues to mount on its leadership to take decisive action against the remarks, which have reignited debates over political tolerance and national cohesion.
The outcome of the Wednesday meeting is expected to set a critical precedent on accountability and responsible leadership within county governments.
