CoG Kicks Out Governor Mutahi Kahiga Despite Apology Over Raila's Death Remarks
The decision came after in-depth discussions about the meaning and public impact of Kahiga’s remarks
Marvin Chege 
The Council of Governors (CoG) has unanimously voted to oust Nyeri Governor Dr. Mutahi Kahiga from his position as Vice Chairperson, denouncing his recent comments about the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga as “untimely, reckless, and unspeakable.”
In a statement issued on Wednesday, October 22 after a Special Council meeting, CoG Chairperson and Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi said the decision came after in-depth discussions about the meaning and public impact of Kahiga’s remarks, which have triggered national outrage and mounting pressure for his resignation.
“Following our statement issued yesterday, we convened a Special Council meeting to deliberate on the interpretation and impact of the utterances made by H.E. Mutahi Kahiga, the Vice Chair of the Council of Governors, and the mitigation thereof,” Abdullahi said.
Council of Governors during a meeting on November 18, 2024. /COUNCIL OF GOVERNORS
“In view of this meeting, the Council has unanimously agreed to remove H.E. Mutahi Kahiga from the leadership of the Council as the Vice Chair with immediate effect. We have also agreed that we will hold another meeting where a new Vice Chair will be elected."
The CoG clarified that Kahiga’s controversial comments — made in Kikuyu during a burial in Nyeri — were his own and not representative of the Council.
Apology
Abdullahi emphasized that Kahiga’s statements were “personal remarks” and did not reflect the collective stance of the 47 county governments.
“We wish to reiterate our deep disappointment in the statements by the Governor. [CoG] still maintain(s) that these sentiments are his personal remarks that do not reflect or represent the views and values of the Council of Governors. We therefore disassociate in toto and condemn these utterances which were untimely, reckless, and unspeakable — especially at this time of deep mourning,” the Council stated.
The Council went on to issue a formal apology to Odinga’s family, describing the late ODM leader as a national icon whose legacy in democracy and governance remains unmatched.
“The Council of Governors extends its deepest apologies to the family of H.E. Rt. Hon. Raila Amollo Odinga, CGH, on behalf of the 47 County Governments, for the unfortunate remarks. We continue to mourn with the family during this difficult time and reaffirm our solidarity, respect, and support to them. The Council remains available to offer any assistance that may be required,” the statement read.
Abdullahi also urged leaders from all political camps to show restraint and mindfulness in their public pronouncements, stressing that unity must prevail, particularly during times of national mourning.
“In a country where political awareness runs high, leaders must exercise both caution and a deep sense of responsibility in their public utterances. As leaders, we must always be guided by the national values and principles of good governance as enshrined in our Constitution,” he said.
The CoG will meet again in the coming days to elect a new Vice Chairperson to replace Kahiga following his dismissal.
On Tuesday evening, Governor Kahiga stirred outrage while addressing mourners at a funeral in his home county after suggesting that Raila Odinga’s death was a “blessing” for the Mt Kenya region, which he claimed had been neglected since the establishment of the broad-based government.
Kahiga — who has previously come under fire for controversial political remarks — alleged that Raila’s alliance with President William Ruto had derailed development priorities in Central Kenya, diverting attention and resources toward the Nyanza region.
His remarks quickly triggered backlash from leaders across the political divide, including figures from both the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), who condemned the governor for his insensitivity during a time of national mourning.
Governor Kahiga subsequently issued an apology to Raila Odinga’s family, the ODM fraternity, and all Kenyans, expressing remorse that his comments had been misunderstood and caused pain at a time when the nation was in mourning.
