By Ongaga Ongaga
The United Opposition of Kenya has condemned Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga for remarks they describe as “the very definition of hate speech,” made just days after the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Governor Kahiga, who was elected on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket, came under fire for comments delivered in his native Kikuyu language that were widely interpreted as inflammatory and ethnically divisive.
The United Opposition, a coalition of parties including Wiper, DAP-K, Jubilee, and others, swiftly distanced itself from Kahiga, emphasizing that he is not affiliated with any party under their umbrella.
“Governor Kahiga’s despicable sentiments should be wholly condemned by all Kenyans,” said Dr. Mukhisa Kituyi, spokesperson for the coalition in a blistering statement.
“It is not enough for him to issue a hurriedly scripted apology. The Council of Governors must act in the public interest and censure him.”
Kahiga has since resigned as Vice Chairperson of the Council of Governors and issued an apology, but the United Opposition dismissed it as inadequate.
They called on him to reveal the identities of those they allege are behind the divisive rhetoric, accusing unnamed individuals of attempting to incite tribal conflict between the Luo and Kikuyu communities.
The controversy comes amid national mourning for Raila Odinga, a towering figure in Kenyan politics whose legacy includes decades of opposition leadership and democratic reform.
His death has left a significant void in the country’s political landscape, and tensions remain high as leaders navigate the post-Raila era.