Kenya’s National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has summoned Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga following his inflammatory remarks about the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

The commission, which monitors hate speech and ethnic relations, said on Wednesday that Kahiga’s comments appeared to breach sections of the law prohibiting speech that promotes ethnic hatred or contempt.

“Governor Kahiga’s utterances, made during a public event, are under investigation for contravening Sections 13 and 62 of the NCIC Act,” said the Commission’s Chairperson, Rev. Dr Samuel Kobia. “Such language has no place in a cohesive nation.”

The NCIC directed the governor to appear before its headquarters at Britam Towers, Upper Hill, to record a statement.

Remarks Stir National Outcry

Kahiga, who was filmed speaking in Kikuyu during a funeral service, appeared to celebrate Raila Odinga’s death — remarks that quickly went viral online and drew sharp criticism from across the political divide.

The backlash forced the Nyeri governor to apologise publicly on Wednesday morning, saying his words had been “taken out of context.”

“I deeply regret the interpretation that has been given to my remarks,” he told reporters. “It was never my intention to offend the family of the late Right Honourable Raila Odinga, whom I respect.”

Kahiga has also resigned as Vice Chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG), a move he described as an act of accountability. He extended a direct apology to Raila’s widow, Ida Odinga, for any distress his comments caused.

NCIC Moves Swiftly

The NCIC, established to promote national unity, has taken a firm stance in recent years against hate speech among political leaders. Dr Kobia said the commission would handle Kahiga’s case “with the seriousness it deserves.”

“The country is still mourning. Leaders must speak with empathy and caution. Words can inflame or heal — and we expect our leaders to choose the latter,” he added.

The summons adds to the growing political fallout from Kahiga’s remarks, which opposition leaders have condemned as “reckless and divisive.”

Wider Political Implications

Kahiga’s case comes at a sensitive moment for Kenya’s political landscape, following the death of Raila Odinga — a towering figure whose influence shaped decades of national politics.

Observers say the incident has reignited debate about hate speech laws, freedom of expression, and the responsibility of public officials to model unity.

The NCIC is expected to question the governor later this week. Should he be found culpable, he could face legal or disciplinary action under the commission’s mandate.

For now, the agency is urging restraint.

“This is a time for healing, not for words that reopen wounds,” Dr Kobia said.