Senator Nyutu urges ODM members not to link Kahiga’s remarks to Gachagua
By Nancy Marende, October 23, 2025Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu has cautioned Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) members against associating Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga’s controversial remarks about the late Raila Odinga with the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader, Rigathi Gachagua.
Governor Kahiga made the controversial remarks during a burial ceremony in Nyeri, speaking in Kikuyu and later sparking outrage nationwide on October 21, 2025.
“You guys can see, you can see what had been planned, but God brought something up. Now it’s total confusion. Everybody can see that.
“We did not harbour hate for anyone, but God came through for us,” the governor said.
Speaking at a local TV Station on Thursday, October 23, 2025, Nyutu said it was unfair and misleading to drag the former Deputy President’s name into the matter, emphasising that Kahiga spoke in his individual capacity.
“We must ask some members of ODM; they must not associate the remarks of a careless person with Rigathi Gachagua. It is good that we make it clear, because he comes from Nyeri. We must make it clear that two leaders working from Nyeri who were working with him when he was impeached. Still, they no longer work with him; instead, they are working with the government, and two of them are Mutahi Kahiga and Ngunjiri Wambugu. So any statement made by the two should not be associated with Rigathi Gachagua,” he stated.
Gladys Wanga
His remarks come shortly after ODM Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga accused Kahiga of acting as a mouthpiece for former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in mocking the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Speaking during a press conference on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, Wanga described Kahiga’s recent remarks during a burial in Nyeri, which appeared to celebrate Raila’s passing, as reckless, shameful, and politically motivated.
She claimed that Kahiga’s statements were not made independently but were coordinated to serve the political interests of Gachagua.
“We are still in very deep mourning for our leader, Raila Odinga, yet we are forced to address these despicable remarks. Kahiga does not speak for himself; he is the spokesperson of Rigathi Gachagua,” Wanga said, condemning the governor’s comments as disrespectful to Raila’s legacy of unity, democracy, and selfless service to the nation.
Wanga further demanded that Kahiga resign from his position as Vice-Chairman of the Council of Governors, citing his irresponsible conduct.
“It is utterly absurd and astonishing for someone of his calibre, holding such a significant leadership position, to make these statements. He can lead in his village, but he cannot lead at a national level,” she added.