Kenya’s United Opposition has strongly condemned Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga over his controversial remarks about the late Raila Odinga, accusing the ruling party of silence in the face of hate speech.

In a statement issued Tuesday night, opposition spokesperson Mukhisa Kituyi said Kahiga’s comments — which appeared to celebrate the opposition leader’s death — were “despicable” and unworthy of a public official.

“For the record, Governor Kahiga was elected on the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket. He is not a member of the United Opposition or any party under our umbrella,” Kituyi said, distancing the coalition from the embattled governor.

The statement called on President William Ruto, UDA chairperson Cecily Mbarire, and Secretary-General Hassan Omar to issue a public condemnation. “UDA should have by now released a censure and apology statement,” it added.

A Storm Over Words

Governor Kahiga sparked outrage after a video surfaced showing him addressing mourners in Nyeri, suggesting that Raila Odinga’s death was “a blessing in disguise” for the Mount Kenya region. He claimed that the political alliance between Raila and President Ruto had diverted development away from Central Kenya.

The remarks drew a swift backlash from across the political spectrum, with both government and opposition figures accusing him of exploiting national grief for political mileage.

Kahiga has since apologised and resigned as vice chair of the Council of Governors (CoG). But opposition leaders dismissed the gesture as “insincere” and “mere damage control.”

“Governor Kahiga’s apology does not erase the harm caused. His words have reopened wounds at a time when the nation should be uniting in mourning,” the statement read.

Call for Accountability

The United Opposition urged the Council of Governors to take disciplinary action, saying public office must come with responsibility. The coalition also accused unnamed figures of using the governor to advance divisive tribal narratives.

“Governor Kahiga should explain why his nefarious paymasters chose him to be their mouthpiece at such a sensitive moment,” the statement said, warning that political leaders must not inflame tensions in an already fragile climate.

Neither Governor Kahiga nor senior officials from UDA have responded publicly to the opposition’s latest demands.

For now, the controversy continues to test Kenya’s commitment to civility in political discourse — and the ability of leaders to rise above partisanship in times of national mourning.