Ahead of the burial of the late Kasipul MP Charles On'gondo Were, the remarkable vehicle transporting his casket to his native constituency has drawn the attention of thousands.
The MP, who was attacked on Wednesday, April 30, had his casket transported to Homa Bay County on Thursday, May 8 in a prestigious Range Rover hearse, reflecting honour and the lawmaker's status in society.
After a requiem mass a day earlier, the journey to Kasipul was led by an elegant hearse from Delights Funeral Services, a renowned funeral services company based in Eldoret and has been redefining the funeral transportation services thanks to its fleet of luxury vehicles.
For many, a hearse is merely a vehicle to transport a deceased person's body in a coffin, from a funeral home, to the cemetery. But the vehicle ferrying Were's casket was anything but ordinary.
Back in 2021, Delights Funeral Services introduced a new level of sophistication to the market by adding swanky Range Rovers to their fleet, with the aim being catering to families seeking a reputable final ride for their loved ones.
One of the standout vehicles launched at the time was a Range Rover limousine, which was maroon in colour and had long gull-wing doors that could hold an adult-sized hearse. On its rear end, it has swan doors that can sit three people.
Although the late Were’s casket was not transported in a Range Rover limousine, it was still carried in what has been described as a top-of-the-range hearse, featuring sleek black finishes, fly doors, and an interior designed to securely hold the casket while allowing public viewing through its glass panels.
When the Range Rover limousine was first launched in 2021, the funeral services company revealed hiring the hearse can cost a family up to Ksh500,000, depending on the distance and services required.
In an exclusive interview with Kenyans.co.ke, a representative of the company said Ksh500,000 remains the price range, but with a few twists.
Since the company mainly targets dignitaries in society, including politicians, there are different payment plans in place, and the Ksh500,000 package includes two Mercedes-Benz and a designated driver.
During the journey from Nairobi to Kasipul, the hearse transporting the late MP's casket was open at key stops, allowing his constituents to view the casket.
Notably, during the procession, the fly doors were left open at key stops, allowing constituents to view the casket as they mourn their leader.
As far as funeral costs are concerned, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula had earlier assured the late MP’s family that Parliament would assist with the funeral logistics, including covering transportation and burial costs.
Dig Deeper: Started in 2015, Delights Funeral Services' fleet extends beyond the Range Rover, with other luxurious vehicles such as a Jaguar limousine, Mercedes Benz, Land Cruisers, and minibuses all available for hire.
Harrison Muchiri, who is the company's founder, was inspired to venture into the business following a personal experience at his father's funeral in 2002, which he says left a "bitter taste" in his mouth. This fuelled his passion to take funeral services in the country to the next level.
More than a decade since its founding, the company has cemented its reputation as the preferred funeral service provider, especially for high-profile individuals and dignitaries.
