Rigathi Gachagua, the leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), has announced that he will not attend the funeral of the late Johanna Ngeno, the Emurua Dikirr Member of Parliament who died in a helicopter crash.
In a statement shared on X (Twitter), Gachagua said it was painful to write a tribute to a leader he described as a close friend, confidant and political ally.
“It is painful to pen this tribute to a great leader of our time, my great friend, confidant and political soul mate, Hon. Ngeno,” he wrote.
Gachagua praised Ngeno as a courageous and dedicated leader who committed himself fully to serving his people.
“A brave, courageous, focused, brilliant and selfless leader who gave all for his people,” he added.
Gachagua Cites Principles for Skipping Funeral
Despite the close relationship he described, Gachagua said he would not attend the burial, citing personal principles and political differences with some of the people expected to be present.
“I would have wanted to come and bury you, but my principles cannot allow me to join those who tormented and persecuted you in life as they pretend to love you in death,” he stated.
The former deputy president also recalled Ngeno’s strong advocacy for the interests of the Kipsigis community, describing him as a fearless voice for a group he said had faced marginalisation for years.
“You taught me to be unashamed of defending the interests of one’s community and people… You were unbowed and resolute in championing the interests of the Kipsigis community,” he said.
‘I Stood With You’ – Gachagua
Gachagua further revealed that he had previously intervened on several occasions to defend Ngeno from what he termed as humiliation and political attacks.
He noted that he stood by the MP when there were attempts to block him from becoming chairman of the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Housing.
“Many times, I had to intervene to save you from further humiliation… I stood firm with you when they wanted to stop you from being Chairman of the Departmental Committee of Housing,” he said.
Condolences to Family and Community
Gachagua also extended his condolences to Ngeno’s family, the people of Emurua Dikirr Constituency, and the wider Kipsigis community.
“May Almighty God give your young family comfort and fortitude as they come to terms with the reality of your untimely departure,” he said.
Ngeno was among six people who lost their lives after a helicopter crashed in Chepkiep in Mosop Constituency, Nandi County.
Gachagua concluded his tribute by describing the late MP as a hero and a champion for his people.
“Rest in peace, my friend, the hero of our time, until we meet again. Rest well, Johana Ngeno.”
