“We note that the comments were indeed reckless, insensitive, sad and unfortunate. It is inhumane and unacceptable to celebrate his death on account of perceived political calculations. H.E. Rt Hon. Raila Odinga was, and will forever remain, a statesman whose contributions are embedded in the annals of our country’s history. He was not only the architect and father of devolution but also its key protector and ardent supporter. He was a father, a husband, a grandfather, a brother, and many things to many people. As a nation, we owe him immense respect, both in life and in death,” -CoG Chairman Ahmed Abdullahi
By The Weekly Vision Political Desk
Governor Mutahi Kahiga has resigned as Vice Chairman of the Council of Governors following an uproar over his remarks regarding the death of ODM leader Raila Odinga. “I want to apologise to the family, the larger ODM fraternity, my colleagues, and those in the greater Nyanza region. My remarks were personal and do not reflect the views of the people of Nyeri or the Council of Governors,” he told the media on Wednesday, 22 October.
“I am taking responsibility and resigning with immediate effect as the Vice Chair of the Council of Governors,” he added.
The Council of Governors had on Tuesday, 21 October, distanced itself from Kahiga’s remarks, terming them unfortunate and expressing its deep disappointment.
Kahiga, on a vernacular radio station, claimed Raila’s death was a blessing for the Mt Kenya region, arguing that his deal with President William Ruto skewed development toward Luo Nyanza.
His resignation came as fellow governors convened an urgent, extraordinary council meeting scheduled for this morning to deliberate on the matter. “As the Council of Governors, we wish to disassociate ourselves entirely from the sentiments expressed by Governor Kahiga and note that those are personal remarks that do not reflect or represent the views of the Council, especially at this time of deep mourning,” Chairman Ahmed Abdullahi said on Tuesday evening.
“We note that the comments were indeed reckless, insensitive, sad, and unfortunate. It is inhumane and unacceptable to celebrate his death on account of perceived political calculations. H.E. Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga was, and will forever remain, a statesman whose contributions are embedded in the annals of our country’s history. He was not only the architect and father of devolution but also its key protector and ardent supporter. He was a father, a husband, a grandfather, a brother, and many things to many people. As a nation, we owe him immense respect, both in life and in death,” he added.
The Council of Governors is expected to issue a further statement after the meeting convened by Abdullahi, who is the Wajir County boss. ODM had earlier demanded Kahiga’s resignation, with Chairperson Gladys Wanga stating, “Kahiga must immediately resign as Vice Chairman of the Council of Governors. We all have a duty to call him out and remind him that Kenya belongs to all of us.”
“As Kahiga’s colleague, I am ashamed of his words. I am offended as Chairperson of ODM and a believer in Raila Odinga and what he bequeathed our country. I take serious offence at Kahiga’s outbursts,” the Homa Bay Governor added.
For her part, United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Chairperson Cecily Mbarire said: “Baba was a true champion of devolution, a visionary who believed in empowering counties and strengthening governance. On this, we stand united.”
“I therefore demand that Governor Kahiga issue a public apology immediately,” the Embu Governor added, noting that there is a need for leaders to rise above petty divisions and lead with empathy, respect, and a spirit of unity, especially at a time when the nation seeks healing.
