UDA to Discipline Governor Kahiga Over Controversial Raila Remarks

UDA to Discipline Governor Kahiga Over Controversial Raila Remarks

Political tension is rising after the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) announced disciplinary action against Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga. His recent remarks about the late Raila Odinga have sparked outrage across Kenya, prompting swift condemnation from both allies and opponents.

“We Disassociate Ourselves from Kahiga’s Sentiments”

On Thursday, October 23, UDA Chairperson and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire addressed the controversy head-on.

“As the UDA party, we disassociated ourselves from the sentiments by Governor Kahiga and have cautioned him to adhere to the ideals of the ruling party,” Mbarire stated.

She confirmed that the party would take internal action, especially now that the National Cohesion and Integration Commission has summoned Kahiga.

“We will write to him on the next course of action,” she added.

“Raila’s Death Is a Blessing to Mt Kenya”

Kahiga made the inflammatory remarks during a funeral in Nyeri on Tuesday evening. He claimed Raila’s passing was a blessing for the Mt Kenya region, which he alleged had been sidelined since the formation of the broad-based government.

“Raila’s partnership with President Ruto shifted development focus to Nyanza. Central Kenya was left behind,” Kahiga said.

His comments triggered immediate backlash from leaders across the political divide, including members of ODM and UDA.

“I Sincerely Apologise to the Nation”

Following the uproar, Kahiga resigned as Vice Chair of the Council of Governors. He issued a public apology to Raila’s family and the nation.

“I want to sincerely apologise to our mourning nation, to the family of the Rt Hon. Former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga; Mama Ida Odinga, her children Rosemary, Junior, and Winnie; Hon. Senator Oburu Odinga; and Hon. MP Ruth Odinga, the ODM fraternity; the Luo Nation, and Kenyans at large,” Kahiga said.

He clarified that his remarks were not celebratory but rather a political reflection.

“My remarks were in no way celebratory. I meant that Raila’s absence forces a political reset,” he explained.

“Development Is Not Skewed”

Governor Mbarire dismissed Kahiga’s claims of regional bias. She highlighted ongoing projects in Mt Kenya, including housing, electrification, and road upgrades.

“It is not true that development is going to only one region of Kenya,” she said.

“We remain fully behind President Ruto and his deputy, Kithure Kindiki,” she affirmed.

As disciplinary proceedings loom, Kenyans are watching closely, demanding accountability and unity during this sensitive time.

ALSO READ: Kenya Mourns Sammy Lui: Veteran Broadcaster and State House MC Dies at Home

UDA to Discipline Governor Kahiga Over Controversial Raila Remarks