Leaders from across the political divide have eulogised the late President Mwai Kibaki as an accomplished leader who put his life on the line for the sake of the country.
Speaking at a presser on Thursday, April 22, Deputy President William Ruto stated that the late Kibaki will be remembered for his contribution to the Kenyan economy.
Ruto was accompanied by Amani National Congress (ANC) leader Musalia Mudavadi and Bungoma Senator Moses Wetangula.
'We pay tribute to our third president who was an outstanding economist and a man who distinguished himself as a man with a great legacy," Ruto eulogised Kibaki.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga described his former boss as a great statesman who contributed greatly to the country's economy and politics.
"Kibaki is one of the freedom fighters of this country. He has served this country with diligence. I had the pleasure to work with him in Parliament and later as his Minister for Roads and later as a Prime Minister.
"Nobody was better than Kibaki when creating team spirit and encouraging his ministers. On behalf of my family, we condole with the family of the late Kibaki," remarked Raila.
Wiper leader, Kalonzo Musyoka, expressed his shock upon hearing the former President's death.
Interior Cabinet secretary, Fred Matiang'i, noted that he will remember Mzee Kibaki for his unique and admirable style of leadership that singularly focused on the effective management of the affairs of the nation.
"The retired President was a sober and reflective statesman who eschewed flippancy in public service. His legendary intolerance for political pettiness and side-shows in favour of national development priorities will remain an entrenched legacy worth of admiration and emulation," Matiang'i noted.
On his part, Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua, who served as a government spokesperson in Kibaki's administration, described the late President as a good boss and mentor.
"I am so sad to learn of the passing of our amazing President H.E. Emilio Mwai Kibaki who I served as government spokesman for his two terms in office. Kibaki was a great leader who turned around Kenya's economy. He had a sharp mind, was honest and straightforward and an amazing boss," Mutua stated.
Baringo Senator Gideon Moi stated that the late Kibaki reformed the country's economy commending him for his consultative approach to dealing with the country's challenges.
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"His focused style of leadership continues to be a reference point on how to steer a country towards a recovery path. His politics too was gentlemanly devoid of sideshows that usually characterise our political arena. The country has lost a worthy leader and a brilliant economist," Moi stated.
Businessman Jimi Wanjigi termed Kibaki as a development conscious leader who shelved all his personal dreams for the sake of a united country.
“It is a dark day for Kenya. We have lost one of our best and our hearts are broken. I deeply condole with the family of my friend H.E Mwai Kibaki, former President of Kenya. My family and I wish you courage and peace during this time. Our thoughts, prayers and love are with you,” Wanjigi mourned Kibaki.
