Tributes pour in for Nyeri Governor Wahome Gakuru

Friends and family members at Lee Funeral Home following the death of Nyeri Governor Wahome Gakuru. PHOTO | KENNEDY KIMANTHI | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • President Uhuru Kenyatta said Nyeri and the country have been robbed of a great promise with the demise of Dr Gakuru.
  • Education and acting Interior CS Fred Matiang'i said he was deeply saddened by the death of Dr Gakuru.

The body of Nyeri Governor Wahome Gakuru has been moved to Lee Funeral Home.

The body was transferred from Thika Level 5 Hospital.

Family and friends are currently viewing the body.

Among those present at Lee include deputy president William Ruto, governors Ferdinand Waititu (Kiambu), Mwangi wa Iria (Murang’a), Martin Wambora (Embu) and Majority Leader Aden Duale.

Meanwhile, emotional tributes from around the country have flooded in after the governor died Tuesday morning.

President Uhuru Kenyatta said Nyeri and the country have been robbed of a great promise with the demise of Dr Gakuru.

"Governor Gakuru was a great leader and an action-oriented man who – upon his victory in the August 8 election – did not waste time but embarked on serving the people of Nyeri with diligence and commitment," the president said.

Nairobi Senator Johnson Sakaja eulogised the governor as a calm gentleman, an erudite economist, a visionary leader and a down-to-earth politician. "We have lost a great man in Dr Gakuru," he said.

'GREAT LEADER'

Speaking to the Nation on phone, Mr Njuki remembered the deceased as a hero and a great leader who embraced unity and always endeavoured for peace and development.

"The cruel hand of death has robbed Nyeri people and the country at large a great leader," said Mr Njuki.

He said Dr Gakuru among many other things will be remembered as the 'Maumau governor' as he used to brand himself.

Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho also sent his message of support to the people of Nyeri and Dr Gakuru's family.

“On my behalf and that of the people of Mombasa I send condolences to the family, friends and Nyeri people. We stand with you during this difficult time. May the Almighty God give you strength as you come to terms with the untimely departure of my colleague,” Governor Joho said.

'BIG LOSS'

Marsabit Governor Ali Mohamud said in his message of condolence. “ It is a big loss for the country and Nyeri people.”

Education and acting Interior CS Fred Matiang'i sent his condolence through twitter terming the death as saddening.

"I am deeply saddened by the demise of Nyeri County Governor - Wahome Gakuru. My condolences and prayers to his family and the people of Nyeri, " he wrote.

Homabay Women Representative Gladys Wanga said, “My deepest condolences to the family of the Nyeri Governor Wahome Gakuru and the people of Nyeri.”

Presidential candidate Ekuru Aukot also sent his message via Twitter, he said “ R.I.P Governor Gakuru Wahome. May your soul rest in eternal peace.”

The Council of Governors eulogised the governor as a brilliant policy maker.