United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Chairperson and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire has condemned Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga for what she termed as “reckless and insensitive” remarks made following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Speaking through a statement on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Mbarire said she was “deeply disturbed” by Kahiga’s comments, which appeared to suggest that Raila’s death was a divine intervention that disrupted political plans unfavourable to the Mt Kenya region.

During a burial ceremony in Nyeri, Kahiga, speaking in Kikuyu, told mourners that “God came through” for the mountain region, implying that Raila’s close relationship with President William Ruto had shifted government benefits toward Nyanza.

“You guys can see what had been planned, but God brought something up. Now it’s total confusion. We did not harbour hate for anyone, but God came through for us,” Kahiga had said, sparking public outrage and sharp political reactions.

In her response, Mbarire distanced the Mt Kenya region and the ruling party from the remarks, insisting that Kahiga’s words did not represent the views or values of the region’s leadership.

“At a time when our nation is mourning, such statements are not only careless but profoundly disrespectful, both to the memory of a statesman and to millions of Kenyans who are grieving his loss,” she said.

She further praised the late ODM leader as “a true champion of devolution, a visionary who believed in empowering counties and strengthening governance,” adding that his legacy should be honoured, not mocked.

“Let it be clearly understood: Governor Kahiga’s remarks do not reflect the views of the Mount Kenya region. Baba was a true champion of devolution, a visionary who believed in empowering counties and strengthening governance. On this, we stand united,” she said.

Mbarire urged Kahiga to issue a public apology and called on leaders across the political divide to rise above “petty divisions” and promote national unity during this period of grief.

“As leaders, we must rise above petty divisions and lead with empathy, respect, and a spirit of unity, especially in times when our nation seeks healing,” she said.

Her statement adds to growing condemnation from both government and opposition figures after Kahiga’s remarks, which the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) earlier described as “divisive and shameful.”

Raila Odinga, who passed away earlier this month, was widely celebrated as one of Kenya’s foremost champions of democracy and good governance. His death has drawn tributes from across the political spectrum, reflecting his enduring influence on the nation’s political landscape.