The United Opposition has officially rejected a statement and subsequent apology made by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga on October 22, 2025. The move comes after the Governor made highly controversial remarks regarding the recent death of a prominent opposition figure.

Governor Kahiga’s initial comments, which quickly went viral, caused widespread outrage across the country.

He was heard suggesting that the death of the opposition leader Raila Amolo Odinga was “the work of God” to favour the political interests of the Mount Kenya region. The Governor also claimed that the President and the late leader had been redirecting all resources away from Mount Kenya to other regions.

“God came and brought this thing (death).” — Governor Mutahi Kahiga, in a viral video

Many leaders and members of the public condemned the remarks as “reckless,” and “insensitive” while the nation was still mourning. There were immediate calls for the Governor to step down from his position as Vice Chairman of the Council of Governors (CoG).

Despite Governor Kahiga’s subsequent apology, the United Opposition has made it clear that they do not accept his attempt to backtrack.

The formal rejection was announced on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 by Dr Mukhisa Kituyi, the appointed Spokesperson of the United Opposition.

He is a high-profile figure who previously served as the Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

This public rejection signifies a united front against what they view as a disrespectful politicisation of a national tragedy.

The decision to formally reject the apology underscores the deep anger over the Governor’s insensitivity. It highlights the political divisions that have resurfaced so soon after a major national loss.