Former minister Njenga Karume dies at 82

Former Cabinet Minister Njenga Karume died on Friday at Nairobi's Karen hospital after a battle with cancer.

The minister's battle with cancer saw him seeking medical attention locally and in India, but family sources said his condition deteriorated forcing them to rush him to Karen Hospital.

The body was later moved to the Lee Funeral Home.

He had served in President Kibaki's Cabinet and had stints in the defence and special programmes dockets.

President Kibaki sent a message of condolence to the family, relatives and friends and said he had "learnt with a deep sense of loss the death of his dear friend".

“We thank God for the great moment we shared with a fine gentleman and political ally that Karume was to me and my family, and political associates and followers,” President Kibaki said.

The President described the late Karume as an astute businessman and a quintessential Kenyan who rose from humble beginnings to build a business and political empire through sheer hard work and determination.

He recalled that two weeks ago he visited Mr Karume at his home in Kiambu County and despite his failing health he exhibited great courage and passion for what he believed in.

Mr Karume's death comes just days after Environment minister John Michuki died of a heart attack.

Mr Michuki was taken ill on Sunday morning two days after returning from a London Hospital, where he had been undergoing treatment since December.