Nairobi MCA Joins Calls for Nyeri Governor Kahiga’s Ouster and Prosecution Over ‘Insensitive’ Remarks

The controversy surrounding Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga’s remarks on the death of ODM leader Raila Odinga escalated today, with Korogocho Member of County Assembly (MCA) Absalom Odhiambo adding his voice to demands for the Governor’s resignation and prosecution.

MCA Odhiambo, also known as Matach, strongly backed the position taken by Kisii Governor Simba Arati, calling for Governor Kahiga to be charged with tribal incitement following his comments made at a funeral in Kieni, Nyeri.

Governor Kahiga had described Odinga’s death as “divine intervention” and suggested it would end what he termed “favourable development in Nyanza,” implying Odinga had previously hindered progress in the Mt. Kenya region following his handshake with President William Ruto. Kahiga’s comments were reportedly met with applause from the funeral attendees but have since sparked nationwide outrage.

“For him to claim that Raila’s death should now end what he says is favourable development in Nyanza is absolute nonsense,” Matach stated.

Demands for Full Resignation

Matach insisted that Kahiga’s recent decision to step down as the Vice Chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG) is insufficient.

“You should resign as the governor with immediate effect even if you have stepped down as the CoG Vice Chairperson,” Matach declared, pressing for his complete departure from office.

Furthermore, the Korogocho MCA issued a stern warning, suggesting the ODM fraternity in Nairobi might ban Governor Kahiga from entering the capital city due to his alleged pattern of tribal remarks.

“We will ban you from accessing Nairobi if you continue with this behavior that you have had for long,” Matach warned.

The backlash against Kahiga stems from the widespread recognition of Raila Odinga as a statesman who championed the 2010 Constitution and devolution, which led to the creation of county governments. Many Kenyans recalled his pivotal role in prioritising peace and equitable development through dialogue and reconciliation, especially after contested elections.