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Mourning nation has no time for reckless talk
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga when he appeared before the Senate Committee on County Public Accounts at Bunge Towers in Nairobi on December 3, 2024.
Kenya is mourning. From the crowded streets of Kisumu to the slopes of Mount Kenya, the nation stands united in grief following the passing of Raila Amolo Odinga - a statesman whose influence on Kenya’s political journey cannot be denied.
For once, our country feels bound together by shared emotion rather than divided by political or tribal loyalties. It is a solemn moment that calls for respect, restraint, and national reflection.
It is against this backdrop of unity that the recent remarks made by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga have left many Kenyans shocked and disappointed. His statements, which appeared to carry ethnic undertones, could not have come at a worse time. At a moment when the nation is collectively honouring one of its greatest sons, such utterances are not only distasteful but also dangerous.
To be clear, the governor’s remarks are his personal opinions and do not, in any way, reflect the collective sentiment of the Mount Kenya region or any Kenyan community. The people of Nyeri, like all other citizens, have joined in paying tribute to Raila - a man who fought tirelessly for democracy, justice, and inclusivity.
Reducing this national moment of unity to tribal rhetoric dishonours both the man and the moment.
Leaders, more than anyone else, must appreciate the weight of their words. Kenya’s history has shown us how easily divisive language can light the match of chaos. In 2007, inflammatory political talk helped plunge the country into one of its darkest periods.
We cannot afford to walk that path again, especially not at a time when Kenyans are working hard to heal, reconcile, and rebuild trust across communities.
Governor Kahiga’s words, therefore, must not be brushed aside.
They are a test of our national institutions and our commitment to peace and accountability. The National Cohesion and Integration Commission must move with speed to investigate the matter and, if warranted, take legal action.
Beyond that, there must be political and moral consequences. County assemblies, including Nyeri’s, should not hesitate to invoke constitutional mechanisms such as impeachment when a leader’s conduct undermines national unity.
Charles Wanjohi, Nairobi
