The political heat in Nyeri is rising after the United Opposition Alliance called for Governor Mutahi Kahiga’s resignation. The alliance, led by former Trade Minister Mukhisa Kituyi, has demanded that the Nyeri Members of County Assembly (MCAs) impeach Kahiga if he refuses to step down voluntarily.
This follows public anger over controversial remarks the governor made while celebrating the death of an individual. The statements have been widely condemned as insensitive, divisive, and contrary to Kenya’s values of respect and unity.
The growing call for accountability has united unlikely allies, with senior politicians, including Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and Eugene Wamalwa, weighing in on the leadership crisis brewing in Nyeri.
United Opposition Demands Kahiga Resign Over Offensive Remarks
Speaking during an NTV interview on Thursday, United Opposition Spokesperson Mukhisa Kituyi sharply criticized Governor Kahiga, calling his words reckless and unbecoming of a leader.
“The sentiments were extremely irresponsible. For someone holding public office to utter such words is unacceptable. We have to express our outrage, and that is why we find it necessary to distance ourselves,” Kituyi said.
He emphasized that Nyeri, a region of historical importance, deserves leaders who embody respect and unity. Kituyi added that the county’s leadership should not be associated with individuals who promote hate or division.
“Nyeri holds a special place in Kenya’s political and cultural history. It deserves leaders who uphold the dignity of their offices. If the governor cannot respect that, then he should step down. If not, the MCAs must take responsibility and start his impeachment,” Kituyi declared.
Kituyi further clarified that Governor Kahiga has no affiliation with the United Opposition, saying he has never attended any of its meetings nor played any role in the coalition.
He also called on the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), Kahiga’s political party, to take firm disciplinary action against the governor. “Let the party take action. A leader who behaves this way should be dewhipped. There is every reason for him to resign,” Kituyi said.
Gachagua and Kalonzo Join Growing Pressure on Kahiga
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who was seen alongside Kalonzo Musyoka and Eugene Wamalwa during a public appearance in March, has reportedly urged Nyeri leaders to act swiftly.
Sources close to the Deputy President claim that he views the situation as a test of integrity for both the county and national leadership. Gachagua’s allies in the region are said to be quietly lobbying Nyeri MCAs to consider impeachment if the governor refuses to step aside.
The alliance between opposition and government figures on this issue shows how deeply Kahiga’s remarks have shaken the political establishment. For once, political rivals seem to agree on a common goal—defending decency in public leadership.
Aukot Terms Kahiga Remarks “Primitive and Backward”
Thirdway Alliance leader Dr. Ekuru Aukot has also joined the chorus of criticism, labeling the governor’s words “primitive and backward.”
“It is shocking that in 2025, a sitting governor can make such remarks. It promotes ethnic tension and hate. The reaction from across the country, including the ODM side, shows how disgusted Kenyans are,” Aukot said.
He urged Nyeri MCAs to invoke Chapter Six of the Constitution on leadership and integrity to remove the governor from office. “This is about integrity. The MCAs must stand for what is right and begin impeachment proceedings immediately,” Aukot added.
Aukot argued that allowing Kahiga to remain in office would set a dangerous precedent for future leaders and weaken public trust in the devolved government system.
Public Outcry Grows Over Kahiga’s Conduct
The public reaction to Governor Kahiga’s remarks has been overwhelmingly negative. Civil society groups, church leaders, and ordinary citizens have expressed disappointment and anger.
Many have taken to social media to demand his resignation, with hashtags calling for accountability trending nationwide. Political observers say the mounting pressure could force Kahiga to step down to save his political career and the reputation of his county.
If Nyeri MCAs heed the call to impeach, Kahiga could face one of the most high-profile political trials in recent county history. Under Article 181 of the Constitution, a county governor may be removed for gross misconduct or violation of the Constitution.
