Nyeri Governor H.E. Dr. Mwalimu Mutahi Kahiga has officially announced his resignation as the Vice Chair of the Council of Governors (CoG) following widespread backlash over a vernacular clip that went viral on social media, which many interpreted as insensitive toward the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, Kenya’s former Prime Minister.

In a press statement dated 22nd October 2025, Governor Kahiga issued a heartfelt public apology to the Odinga family, the ODM fraternity, the Luo Nation, and all Kenyans, expressing deep regret over his remarks. He emphasized that his words were taken out of context, clarifying that the comments made during a burial in his home village were not celebratory but rather reflective on Kenya’s political situation.

 “From the very onset I want to sincerely apologize to our mourning nation, to the family of the Rt. Hon Former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga; Mama Ida Odinga, her children Rosemary, Junior and Winnie, Hon. Senator Oburu Odinga and Hon. MP Ruth Odinga, and the larger extended family, the ODM fraternity, the Luo Nation and Kenyans at large,” Kahiga said.

The Governor went on to explain that his remarks were personal views and not representative of the position of any community, political party, or the Council of Governors.

 “Let me make it clear that the remarks I made are my personal views and should in no way be associated with any community’s position or political affiliation,” he added.

Acknowledging the public uproar that followed the viral clip, Kahiga announced that he was taking full responsibility for both the real and perceived meaning of his remarks. Consequently, he declared his immediate resignation as Vice Chair of the Council of Governors.

 “I have decided that with immediate effect to step down as the Vice Chair of the Council of Governors,” he stated, calling for national unity and respect for the legacy of the late Raila Odinga.

The statement concludes with a message of peace and condolences:

“May the soul of the Rt. Hon. Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga continue resting in eternal peace. God bless Kenya.”

Governor Kahiga’s decision marks a significant political moment amid ongoing national mourning and conversations about leadership, accountability, and unity in Kenya.

Nyeri Governor H.E. Dr. Mwalimu Mutahi Kahiga has officially announced his resignation as the Vice Chair of the Council of Governors (CoG) following widespread backlash over a vernacular clip that went viral on social media, which many interpreted as insensitive toward the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, Kenya’s former Prime Minister.