The United Opposition of Kenya has strongly condemned remarks made by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga regarding the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, describing them as “the very definition of hate speech” and rejecting his subsequent apology.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the coalition said Kahiga’s comments, which were broadcast across various media platforms on October 21, 2025, were deeply offensive and divisive.
“Our attention has been drawn to what quite frankly is the very definition of hate speech as clearly defined and outlined in our Constitution, 2010, Article 33 to be precise,” the statement read.
The coalition clarified that Governor Kahiga’s remarks were made in his personal capacity and did not represent the views of any political group affiliated with the United Opposition.
“For the record, Governor Kahiga was elected on the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Party ticket. He is not a member of the United Opposition or any party under our umbrella,” the statement added.
The coalition called on President William Ruto, as the UDA Party Leader, to condemn the governor’s comments and take disciplinary action. They also urged Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, the UDA Party Chairperson, and Secretary General Senator Hassan Omar to issue a formal censure and public apology on behalf of the party.
“Governor Kahiga’s despicable sentiments should, in one accord, be wholly condemned by all Kenyans starting with his UDA Party leadership,” the statement emphasized.
Additionally, the United Opposition urged the Council of Governors (CoG) to act swiftly and sanction Kahiga for what they described as “stage-managed comments designed to ignite an ethnic war.”
Governor Kahiga’s remarks have sparked nationwide outrage, leading to his resignation as Vice Chairperson of the Council of Governors and a public apology to the Odinga family and the nation.
However, despite his apology, calls for accountability continue to mount, with political leaders and civil society groups urging the government to take firm action against hate speech and divisive rhetoric in the wake of Raila Odinga’s death.