Sean Andrew Kibaki, one of the grandchildren of the late former President Mwai Kibaki, honoured him in a special way during the burial ceremony that was held privately in Othaya Nyeri County on Saturday, April 30.
Sean, who is a professional fashionista and photographer, took a spade, like other Kibaki family members, taking part in the filling of the grave with soil.
What stood out, is Sean's gesture where after handing over the spade, he was captured taking off one of his rings and dropping it in the grave.
It was not immediately established why he threw the ring inside the grave and its significance in honouring the country's third president, and his grandfather.
Sean's Tribute
In his tribute, Sean described Kibaki as a compassionate and observant leader. He also disclosed how he inspired him to become an economist.
"Guka is without a doubt the most observant, attentive, and knowledgeable man I have ever met. Compassionate and humble, he represents the man I wish to be. With a contagious smile and an infectious laugh, a true gentleman, role model, and leader.
Words do not carry enough weight to describe the man I knew. Brilliant, loving, wise, and passionate to name a few. He brought economics to the forefront and inspired a new generation of economists, including myself," he stated.
Sean further noted that Kibaki inspired the spirit of leadership in the family and even other grandchildren.
"Guka taught us, that leadership does not involve domination. That the world is already full of people who have a staunch desire to rule and take charge of other peoples’ lives. But this cannot be a trait of a good leader," he stated
He added, "the discipline that he enforced upon himself enabled him to rise against all odds and never bow down to circumstances. For this reason, it is permanently etched in my mind that disciple and sacrifice is the bridge between goals and accomplishments, and that discipline is wisdom and vice versa. He dedicated his entire life to galvanizing, inspiring, and guiding the higher sentiments and ambitions of the people.
Sean gained traction during the late Former First Lady Lucy Kibaki's burial in 2016 where he shared an emotional tribute on his official social media pages.
Kibaki received a State funeral with full military honours and a 19-gun salute, to highlight the respect held for the departed leader.
He becomes the second person to receive the 19-gun salute in Kenya after former President Daniel Moi who died in February 2020.
