The Controversial Statements of Gotha wa Mgothe
TikTok personality Emmanuel Ouma Odhiambo, known as Gotha wa Mgothe, faced significant backlash after expressing his refusal to mourn the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. In a video that was later deleted, he stated, “I cannot mourn Raila because he was not my father.” This sentiment sparked outrage among many Kenyans who found it inappropriate to make such comments during a time of national mourning.
The online reaction was swift and intense, with many people demanding an apology from Gotha. Despite issuing an apology, he continues to face threats from individuals who are upset by his initial remarks.
Life After the Outcry
In an exclusive interview with foot-care.co.ke, Gotha shared how his life has changed since the incident. He revealed that he had to leave Nairobi and return to his village for safety. “These people have disturbed me until I went back to the village,” he said. “I am the breadwinner in my home, and the situation with my grandmother is not working because I am wondering where to start.”
Gotha explained that he has been threatened multiple times, which led him to seek refuge with his grandmother. “At least she can see me near her because people are constantly calling her to lie about things that have happened to me,” he added. He also mentioned that he plans to visit Raila’s grave, hoping that this gesture will help ease the tension and allow him to return to his normal life.
Returning to Nairobi?
Gotha shared that he was previously employed as a stage controller, helping to ensure matatus are filled at their bus stop. However, he lost his job and had to leave Nairobi due to the threats he received. “Now I am just sitting with my grandmother outside the door, because I was hustling in Nairobi. When I come back from visiting Raila’s grave, I will return to Nairobi to hustle for my grandmother,” he said.
He expressed his apologies to Kenyans and Luos for his mistake, stating, “I messed up and I apologise. Let me return and hustle so my grandmother can have something to eat. I got my house locked up, lost my job, and my line was blocked. The threats were so much, I had to leave.”
Other Controversial Remarks
While Gotha’s statements caused a stir, another prominent figure, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, also found himself in trouble after making controversial remarks following Raila Odinga’s death. During a funeral in his county, Kahiga suggested that Raila’s death was an “answered prayer” from God, claiming the late leader had “taken away” development from Mt. Kenya.
His comments, delivered in Kikuyu, sparked widespread backlash from Kenyans and political leaders alike. They condemned his remarks as deeply insensitive. As a result, Kahiga was forced to resign from his role as the Vice Chair of the Council of Governors. The UDA party also vowed to take action against him for his inappropriate statements.
Conclusion
The events surrounding Gotha wa Mgothe and Mutahi Kahiga highlight the sensitivity of public figures’ comments, especially during times of national grief. Both individuals faced severe consequences for their remarks, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful and respectful communication in public discourse.