The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has found himself at the center of public controversy after a viral video appeared to show him making insensitive remarks about the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
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The video, which circulated widely on Tuesday evening, captured Governor Kahiga allegedly suggesting that Raila’s death would “free” government resources for the Mt. Kenya region. His comments, made in vernacular, were interpreted by many as celebratory and dismissive of the national grief that followed Odinga’s passing.
“The plan that had been made seemed to favour one side, but God intervened,” Kahiga said in part, implying that Odinga’s death had altered political dynamics in the country. The remarks quickly triggered nationwide outrage.
Leaders from across the political divide condemned the governor’s statement, accusing him of politicizing a moment of mourning. Raila’s sister, Ruth Odinga, responded sharply on social media, writing, “A whole governor! Shame on you!”
Narok Senator Ledama Olekina criticized Kahiga’s remarks as “unacceptable and contrary to national values of respect and unity,” urging leaders to uphold dignity regardless of political differences.
Trade Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui called the comments “regrettable and unfortunate,” saying they reflected “a narrow and divisive mindset.”
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party took a more conciliatory tone, urging forgiveness and prayers for the governor, while Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei demanded a public apology, terming the comments “ungodly, un-African, and uncouth.”
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The backlash came as the country continued to mourn the death of Raila Odinga, who passed away on October 15 in India after a cardiac arrest. He was laid to rest on October 18 at his rural home in Bondo, Siaya County, in a state funeral attended by President William Ruto and other national leaders.
Raila, who had recently built a cooperative working relationship with President Ruto after years of political rivalry, was widely regarded as a symbol of Kenya’s democratic struggle and the father of devolution.
