The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) will take disciplinary action against Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga for his remarks on the death of Raila Odinga. UDA Chairperson Cecily Mbarire announced this on October 23, 2025, distancing the party from the comments. Kahiga's statements have sparked widespread outrage from leaders across the political spectrum.
On October 21, 2025, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga addressed mourners in Nyeri, claiming that the death of Raila Odinga was a blessing for the Mt Kenya region, which he said had been sidelined in resources since the broad-based government's formation. He alleged that Raila's political partnership with President William Ruto disrupted development in Central Kenya, shifting resources to the Nyanza region.
The remarks triggered widespread backlash, with leaders from both UDA and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) condemning them. Kisii Governor Simba Arati stated, “We want him arrested immediately and charged for his remarks about the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga,” adding that “such words aim to divide Kenya.” Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga linked the comments to those of Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of spreading hate.
Kahiga resigned from his Vice Chair position in the Council of Governors (CoG) and issued an apology. “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... the ODM fraternity, the Luo Nation, and Kenyans at large,” he said. He clarified, “My remarks were in no way celebratory. What I meant is that under the current broad-based government, we have seen skewed development... this loss sends everyone back to the drawing board.”
On October 23, 2025, Cecily Mbarire said, “As the UDA party, we disassociated ourselves from the sentiments by Governor Kahiga,” adding, “Now that the National Cohesion and Integration Commission has summoned him, we will also take action at the party level. We will write to him on the next course of action.” She disputed claims of skewed development, noting Mt Kenya benefits from projects in housing, electrification, roads, and health, and mentioning the Makutano-Embu-Meru road dualling. The National Cohesion and Integration Commission has summoned Kahiga.