NAIROBI — Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has condemned Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, describing him as “the vilest” among those who harboured hatred toward the late Raila Odinga.
Sifuna’s sharp rebuke followed a viral video in which Kahiga appeared to celebrate Raila’s death, suggesting it was “a blessing in disguise” that would allow development projects to return to Central Kenya.
“You guys can see what had been planned, but God brought something up. Now it’s total confusion,” Kahiga said while addressing mourners in Nyeri on 21 October. “We did not harbour hate for anyone, but God came through for us.”
The remarks drew widespread outrage, with leaders across political lines calling them insensitive at a time when the country is still mourning the former Prime Minister.
“Baba Taught Us to Respond with Love”
In a statement issued hours later, Senator Sifuna said the late ODM leader was known for his grace, even toward his harshest critics.
“We know there are those who hated Baba, but it’s still shocking to hear it,” Sifuna said. “Mutahi Kahiga is easily the vilest of the bunch, but Baba taught us to always respond with love. If he were still around, the next thing you’d see is him having lunch with Kahiga.”
Sifuna’s comments reflected a broader sentiment among Raila’s supporters that, despite years of political rivalry, the ODM leader had often chosen reconciliation over retaliation.
ODM and CoG Condemnation
The Orange Democratic Movement formally denounced Kahiga’s statements, calling them “regrettable and unbecoming of a public leader.”
“At a moment when millions of Kenyans across political, ethnic, and religious lines are still in deep mourning, Governor Kahiga chose to pour salt into the nation’s open wounds,” said ODM Deputy Party Leader Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir in a statement issued Tuesday night.
Nassir, who is also the Governor of Mombasa County, described Raila Odinga as a “symbol of unity and reconciliation,” adding that the party would not be distracted by divisive rhetoric.
“Despite the unfortunate utterances in Kieni, we remain steadfast in advancing the values of unity and nation-building. We will continue to work in good faith toward a more cohesive, just, and prosperous Kenya,” Nassir said.
The Council of Governors (CoG) also weighed in, distancing itself from Kahiga’s comments and joining calls for political leaders to show restraint and respect during the national mourning period.
A Nation Still in Mourning
The controversy comes as Kenya continues to grapple with the loss of one of its most influential political figures. Raila Odinga, who shaped the country’s democratic and opposition politics for decades, is being mourned across political and ethnic divides.
Kahiga’s remarks — and the backlash they sparked — have reignited long-standing debates about unity, respect, and leadership in moments of shared grief.