Government Issues Stern Warning to Politicians Fanning Division Amid National Mourning
Nairobi, Kenya – October 22, 2025
The Government of Kenya has issued a strongly worded statement condemning recent remarks by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, describing them as “unpatriotic, divisive, and insensitive,” particularly during a period of national mourning following the passing of Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga.
In the statement, the Government expressed “deep concern” over Governor Kahiga’s utterances, asserting that such comments threaten national unity and social cohesion. The late Raila Odinga, a revered statesman and a founding pillar of Kenya’s democratic journey, passed away recently, prompting a national outpouring of grief and reflection.
“We condemn such divisive, insensitive and disrespectful remarks,” read the statement in part, underscoring that this is a time for healing, not political posturing.
The Government reiterated President William Samoei Ruto’s commitment to inclusive development, stating that every county in the country—regardless of political affiliation—receives its fair share of national resources. The statement credited the President’s administration with rising above “acrimonious politics” to serve all Kenyans equally, a move it said is rooted in “true leadership anchored in national unity, inclusivity, and people-centered governance.”
The statement also welcomed Governor Kahiga’s resignation from his position as the Vice Chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG), calling it a necessary step in light of the controversy.
Further, the Government has called upon the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to investigate and take action against any leader found to be inciting division or spreading hate speech. The statement invoked the Constitution of Kenya, emphasizing the legal consequences of promoting ethnic animosity.
“We urge all leaders across the political divide to uphold the values of the constitution and to honor the memory of the late Raila Odinga by promoting peace, unity, and dignity among all Kenyans,” the statement concluded.
This warning serves as a broader message to all political actors: that Kenya’s peace, stability, and unity are paramount, especially in times of shared sorrow.