Kahiga's political remarks spark renewed concern over incitement

Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has come under fire for his remarks on the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. [File, Standard]

At the beginning of the week, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga sparked outrage and widespread condemnation following unsavoury comments that prompted calls for his impeachment.

Although he has since apologised, his remarks reopened old wounds — a stark reminder of how inflammatory utterances, particularly in political circles, often fade from attention with little or no accountability, leaving lasting scars.

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has issued a statement urging calm, tolerance, unity, and respect for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s legacy and his commitment to the values of democracy, peace, justice and inclusivity.

In the statement, NCIC Chairman Samuel Kobia reminded leaders that their words carry significant weight and influence, especially during times of national grief, stressing the importance of public officials conducting themselves with decorum. “The careless and provocative nature of the governor’s remarks flies in the face of these expectations and stands as a stark reminder of the urgent need for restraint and dignity in public discourse. NCIC has initiated the process towards summoning Governor Kahiga to make a statement about his remarks,” Dr Kobia said.

He also expressed concern over retaliatory messages from some Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders, suggesting that they had banned the former Deputy President from visiting Bondo.

Dr Kobia urged political leaders to rise above partisan interests and prioritise the nation’s unity by embracing responsible and inclusive rhetoric that reflects the values of the Constitution.

Kahiga’s remarks triggered a flurry of exchanges among leaders and citizens alike.

For instance, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga accused him of acting as a mouthpiece for former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in mocking Raila, warning that anyone who associates with Gachagua and his allies, including the Nyeri Governor, should be treated as an adversary. 

“The principle is simple: the friend of your enemy is your enemy. Anyone aligning themselves with Gachagua and Kahiga in mocking Raila Odinga can never be counted as our friend,” Wanga said.

Her remarks drew sharp criticism from several leaders, among them Nyandarua Senator John Methu.

“What caught my attention was your statement that, Rigathi, his allies and his supporters cannot be your friends. I want to assume you meant your family, not your party. One of the fundamental rights that Raila got us in the new constitution is the freedom of association… Kahiga has since apologised and resigned as the Council of Governor’s Vice Chairperson. Raila the great wouldn’t have trolled a community just because one of them erred,” Methu said.

This is not the first time a section of politicians has made reckless statements capable of inciting Kenyans.

In May, NCIC summoned Gachagua over comments deemed inflammatory, in which he hinted at potential violence during the 2027 elections.

Through his legal team, Gachagua rebutted the summons, arguing that he was entitled to his opinion under Article 33 of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression. His lawyers also cited remarks by President William Ruto’s allies — including Tiaty MP William Kamket, Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi and Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei .

Gachagua accused the NCIC of bias, saying its failure to censure certain leaders undermined its institutional integrity.

“In light of the foregoing, our client respectfully demands clarity as to whether the Commission remains committed to executing its constitutional and statutory mandate in a fair, impartial and non-discriminatory manner,” his team added.