Kagwe Condemns Kahiga’s Insensitive Raila Remarks
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe condemned remarks by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga about the late Raila Odinga. Kagwe said the comments were culturally repugnant and politically retrogressive.
Kagwe says remarks breached cultural norms
CS Kagwe condemned Kahiga’s remarks on Raila as insensitive to a grieving nation. He spoke at the 5th National Agribusiness Summit at KICC. “We are mourning. As Nyeri people, I am personally mourning,” Kagwe said.
He added that speaking ill of the dead violates local rites and can bring misfortune. He said such conduct is not acceptable for public officials. Kagwe called the comments “morally indefensible.”
Leadership must show restraint
Kagwe urged leaders to avoid divisive language. He said leadership requires restraint and respect during national grief. “As leaders, we must always be careful about what we say,” he said.
He also stressed that one person’s remarks do not represent a whole community. Kagwe said Kahiga’s views were personal and did not reflect Nyeri or national leadership.
Political fallout and local condemnation
Kagwe’s rebuke follows broad public outrage. Nyeri leaders, including Senator Wahome Wamatinga and several MPs, publicly denounced Kahiga’s comments. The Council of Governors removed Kahiga from the vice-chair role after he announced his resignation.
Kahiga apologised to Raila’s family, the ODM party and Kenyans. He said his statements were taken out of context and did not represent Mount Kenya.
Call for unity and next steps
Kagwe urged Kenyans to rise above politics and show compassion to the bereaved. Meanwhile, County and national leaders may review Kahiga’s position at upcoming Council of Governors sittings. The CS said national unity must guide responses to such incidents.
Kagwe closed by urging political actors to promote cohesion, not division. He warned that provocative remarks risk undermining peace.
