Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga is facing mounting political and legal pressure after comments he made about the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s death drew widespread outrage across Kenya.

Speaking at a local gathering in Nyeri on Tuesday, Kahiga described Raila’s passing as a “blessing” for the Mt Kenya region — remarks that critics say were deeply insensitive and divisive. His words sparked condemnation from across the political spectrum, forcing him to resign as vice chair of the Council of Governors.

“Such statements dishonour the memory of a national leader and threaten to tear at the fabric of our unity,” said one ODM official, urging the authorities to take action.

UDA Moves and Political Fallout

Elected on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket in 2022, Kahiga now faces potential disciplinary action from his own party. Sources within UDA say the matter could soon be referred to the party’s Disciplinary Committee, which has the power to issue warnings, suspend, or even expel errant members.

Under UDA’s constitution, a formal complaint must be lodged before the disciplinary body can take up the case. Kahiga would then be given a written notice and a chance to defend himself, as required by law.

However, legal experts note that being expelled from the party would not automatically cost him his governorship. “He was elected directly by the people, not appointed by the party,” explained political analyst Michael Mburu. “Expulsion would be politically damaging, but not legally fatal.”

The Impeachment Option

Still, Kahiga could face a more serious threat from the Nyeri County Assembly, where UDA holds a commanding majority. If party leadership decides to move against him, the assembly could introduce a motion to impeach him.

Under Kenyan law, a governor can be impeached for gross misconduct, abuse of office, or violation of the Constitution. Should such a motion pass in the County Assembly, it would be forwarded to the Senate for a hearing. If the Senate upholds it, Kahiga would be removed from office.

NCIC and Legal Scrutiny

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has also been urged to take notice of Kahiga’s remarks. The Commission is mandated to investigate speech that may incite hatred or ethnic hostility.

If the NCIC determines that Kahiga’s comments meet the threshold for hate speech, he could face prosecution under the NCIC Act or Section 96 of the Penal Code. Conviction could carry a fine of up to KSh1 million, or imprisonment for up to five years.

“The NCIC must act decisively,” said human rights advocate Martha Gichuki. “Failure to address this kind of rhetoric sends the wrong message to leaders.”

Broader Consequences

Beyond politics and law, the controversy could cost Kahiga his standing in the community. Some reports suggest that local elders are considering revoking his membership in the Agikuyu Council of Elders. Others have hinted that his teaching credentials could be reviewed by the Teachers Service Commission, though no official communication has been made.

For now, Kahiga remains defiant, dismissing calls for his resignation. But with political allies distancing themselves and public criticism growing louder, the road ahead appears increasingly uncertain.

As the dust settles, one thing seems clear: Kahiga’s words have set off a reckoning in a country still mourning a statesman many saw as a symbol of resilience and unity.