The Council of Governors (CoG) has strongly condemned remarks made by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing them as reckless, insensitive and inhumane.
In a press statement signed by CoG Chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi, the council expressed deep disappointment over Governor Kahiga’s utterances, saying they were personal views that did not reflect the position of the Council of Governors.
“As the Council of Governors, we wish to disassociate in toto with the sentiments of Governor Kahiga and note that those are personal remarks that do not represent the views of the Council of Governors, especially at this time of deep mourning,” the statement read in part.
The council noted that celebrating the death of any national leader on political grounds was unacceptable and unbecoming of a public officer.
“The comments are indeed reckless, insensitive, sad and unfortunate. It is inhumane and unacceptable to celebrate his death on account of perceived political calculations,” Abdullahi stated.
He described the late Raila Odinga as a statesman, architect and father of devolution, whose contributions were deeply embedded in Kenya’s democratic and political history.
“He was not only the architect and father of devolution but its key protector and ardent supporter. He was a father, husband, grandfather, brother and many things to many people. We as a nation owe him immense respect both in life and in death,” Abdullahi added.
The CoG Chair announced that an urgent extraordinary council meeting had been convened to deliberate on the Governor’s comments and their implications. A further statement is expected after the meeting.
The late Raila Odinga, who served as Kenya’s second Prime Minister and long-time opposition leader, passed away earlier this week, prompting an outpouring of tributes from leaders across the political divide.
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