DCP Disowns Governor Kahiga's Remarks

The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) has publicly distanced itself from Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, following his controversial remarks concerning the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Peter Mbae, DCP Secretary for Planning and Economic Affairs, stated on Wednesday, October 23, 2025, that Governor Kahiga is a 'state agent' and does not represent the party or the broader United Opposition.

Governor Kahiga's comments, made during a funeral in Nyeri and delivered in Kikuyu, suggested that Odinga's death was a 'divine intervention' that would re-direct government resources to the Mount Kenya region, away from Nyanza. These statements, widely circulated in a video, ignited significant public outrage and prompted calls for his prosecution for allegedly promoting ethnic contempt.

Political Fallout and Resignation

The backlash led to Governor Kahiga's immediate resignation as the Vice Chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG) on Tuesday, October 22, 2025. He issued an apology to the Odinga family, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) fraternity, the Luo nation, and all Kenyans, claiming his remarks were misinterpreted and not intended to be celebratory.

Despite his apology and resignation, the Council of Governors, chaired by Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, unanimously voted to remove him from the vice-chair position, emphasizing that his sentiments did not reflect the Council's values. The CoG described the utterances as 'reckless, insensitive, sad, and unfortunate.'

DCP's Stance and Allegations of State Affiliation

Peter Mbae of the DCP asserted that Governor Kahiga's statements do not align with the position of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who leads the DCP. Mbae further alleged that Kahiga is being used by undisclosed entities within the state, citing instances where Deputy President Kithure Kindiki reportedly sent Kahiga to represent him at church functions as evidence of his allegiance to the state rather than the opposition.

The United Opposition, a coalition including DCP, Wiper, PLP, and DAP-K, also condemned Kahiga's remarks as hate speech and called for disciplinary action from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) leadership, including President William Ruto.

Historical Context of Governor Kahiga's Controversies

This is not the first time Governor Kahiga has faced public condemnation for his remarks. In February 2025, he drew criticism for disparaging comments about the Maasai community at a funeral in Laikipia, which also led to an apology and a delegation visit to Maasai elders to 'mend fences.' Earlier in the year, he also apologised to Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata over controversial remarks.

Governor Kahiga was elected as the Deputy Governor of Nyeri County in 2017 and ascended to the gubernatorial position in November 2017 following the demise of Governor Wahome Gakuru. He was re-elected in the 2022 general elections under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket.

Implications and Next Steps

The ongoing controversy could have significant political ramifications for Governor Kahiga. While expulsion from his party, UDA, would not automatically lead to the loss of his gubernatorial seat, he could face impeachment proceedings if a motion succeeds at the Nyeri County Assembly and is upheld by the Senate. Calls for his resignation as Nyeri Governor have also been made by various leaders.

What to Watch

• Further disciplinary actions by the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) against Governor Mutahi Kahiga.
• Any potential impeachment proceedings initiated by the Nyeri County Assembly.
• Statements from the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) and Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) regarding their investigations into the alleged incitement.