The family of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has formally pardoned Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga following his contentious remarks that appeared to celebrate his passing.

Speaking on NTV on Saturday, Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, Raila’s elder brother and head of the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga family, confirmed the governor is welcome to mourn with them, provided he expresses genuine remorse.

Oburu emphasised that the family harbors no resentment and remains open to reconciliation.

“No one is barred from coming to Kang’o ka Jaramogi to mourn, including Kahiga, if he is remorseful,” he stated.

“In politics there is no permanent enmity."

He added that the family’s ethos is rooted in unity and forgiveness, noting that political adversaries should not become permanent enemies.

“Those comments do not annoy me… I excuse them… If you hold a grudge, your heart can stop earlier than God’s plan,” he added.

Raila died on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80 while undergoing treatment in India.

Shortly after, Governor Kahiga was quoted describing the death as “a godsend to Mt Kenya people,” suggesting it might prompt a reevaluation of government resource allocation away from Luo Nyanza region.

His comments, made during a burial in Kieni Constituency, sparked widespread condemnation across the country.

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga responded by declaring Kahiga unwelcome in Bondo, a move that itself drew criticism for being exclusionary. By Sharon Mwende, Star