Governor Kahiga resigns as Vice Chair COG; his Chauvinism has set many Nations aflame

BY ERIC ABUGA

Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has resigned as Vice Chairperson Council of Governors following public outbursts on his insensitive remarks made Tuesday evening on Raila Odinga's death.

"The plan that had been hatched, if you look keenly, for you who do not travel, because I was in that region, all goodies were being directed there because of tomorrow’s plans, because it seemed like they did away with us, but God came and brought this thing," Kahiga said in vernacular.

In a statement issued Wednesday morning Kahiga said apologized to the Odinga family, Luo Community, Kenyans and his colleague leaders. 

"The remarks I made were my personal views and therefore should not be in any way be associated with a community's position or any political affiliation nor the Council of Governors."

Homabay Senator Moses Otieno Kajwang said Kahiga can no longer lead the Council of Governors. 

"I expect Governors to relieve him of his position as Vice Chair with immediate effect. Raila, whose death Kahiga now celebrates, defended devolution to his last breath and ensured we promulgated a constitution that guarantees every region a share of the national pie irrespective of their political persuasion. If we had the power, we would ask God to send him and his masters to hell and keep Raila with us."

ODM National Tresurer Timothy Bosire said; "In the spirit of building a great Nation Kenya, leaders should demonstrate maturity, humanness, capacity to accommodate divergent views without resorting to violence and pettiness that might lead to National instability. All Kenyans are entitled to development."

National Assembly Majority Chief Whip Sylvanus Osoro said making a mockery over the death of Raila Odinga ,and indeed the entire Luo nation is not only being insensitive but also being evil.

"It is against our culture to dance on the grave of the departed, worse of it, for the reason of political differences. The element of appearing like inciting a whole community against another is unfortunate."

Godfrey Osotsi, Senator for Vihiga County said such statements are not only insensitive but an affront to the values of unity and respect that bind our nation.

"Raila Odinga dedicated his life to democracy, justice and the fight for a better Kenya and his passing should unite us in reflection, not divide us through reckless utterances."

He said; "As leaders, we must rise above tribal and political lines and I urge Governor Kahiga to retract his words and offer a sincere apology to the Odinga family and the nation."

On behalf of UDA party, Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire said such statements are not only careless but profoundly disrespectful,  both to the memory of a statesman and to millions of Kenyans who are grieving his loss.

"Governor Kahiga’s remarks do not reflect the views of the Mount Kenya region. Baba was a true champion of devolution,  a visionary who believed in empowering counties and strengthening governance. On this, we stand united."

She called on leaders, to rise above petty divisions and lead with empathy, respect, and a spirit of unity, especially in times when our nation seeks healing.

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino said; "I unequivocally condemn the reckless and disturbing utterances made by Kahiga Mutahi. Such statements are unacceptable and must not be tolerated."

ICT Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo said Raila stood for the ideals of democracy, justice, and national unity. 

"Those sentiments do not reflect the values or the voice of the wider community. Kenya’s strength lies in its diversity, and no one should use public office to advance rhetoric that alienates or disrespects others."

Kabogo said leaders carry the moral duty to inspire, to unite, and to build bridges not to break them. 

Homabay Governor Gladys Wanga said Kahiga came out with a very rare admission: that for him and his supporters, Raila's death was their prayer answered. 

"Kahiga has long thrived on bursts of false and outrageous allegations, personal insults, fear mongering and ethnic profiling,  especially when it comes to the Luo nation and Raila Odinga."

Wanga said, "None of his past public outbursts have been as primitive, insensitive and insulting as what he said today about Raila, the Luo nation and the sharing of the national cake. I am ashamed of his words. I take serious offense at Kahiga's outbursts."

CPA Fernandes Barasa, Governor Kakamega County said Kahiga's remarks were not only insensitive but a disgrace to the spirit of leadership and national unity.

"Such behavior is unacceptable, especially from the Vice Chair of the Council of Governors. Kahiga has dishonoured the office he holds and should do the decent thing, resign. Kenya deserves leaders who uphold respect, empathy, and national unity."

Governor Mutahi Kahiga's utterances mocking or rather celebrating  the passing of Kenyan Patriot  Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga are not only distasteful but also reflect a dangerously divisive mindset.

Such remarks tear at the fabric of our national unity and betray the spirit of leadership that calls for empathy, restraint, and respect.

Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa said, "Kahiga's words seek to reopen wounds and breed unnecessary hostility. The path to national cohesion lies in respect, peace, and unity, not in the politics of ridicule and division. Kenya is far greater than any single tribe or political affiliation."

ODM Deputy Party Leader and Mombasa Governor Sherrif Nassir said no amount of trivial politics or inflammatory speech that will distract the Country.

"Despite the unfortunate utterances in Kieni we remain steadfast and undeterred in advancing the values of unity and nation building."

He said; "We will continue to work in good faith toward a more cohesive, just, and prosperous Kenya. We urge for responsible voices across the Country."