President Kenyatta, DP Ruto mourn death of Mama Lucy Kibaki

President Uhuru Kenyatta has paid tribute to Mama Lucy Kibaki who passed on Tuesday morning while undergoing treatment at a London Hospital.

President Kenyatta said Mama Lucy’s death was saddening calling on God to give the former President Mwai Kibaki strength during these difficult times.

“On behalf of all Kenyans and my Government I convey heartfelt condolences and encouragement to His Excellency Hon Mwai Kibaki, family and friends,” stated President Kenyatta.

“Her excellency has been unwell for the last one month and has been receiving treatment here in Kenya and subsequently in the United Kingdom.”

The Head of State further noted: “Mama Lucy will be remembered for her contribution in the development of our country especially her virtues of leadership and commitment to improving the wellbeing of the ordinary Kenyans, in particular her focus  on tackling HIV/AIDs, which will remain an inspiration to many.”

“May the Almighty God rest her soul in Everlasting Peace.”

Deputy President William Ruto in his message remembered Mama Lucy for her contributions to the development of the nation terming her a relentless campaigner against the courage of HIV/AIDs.

“Her commitment and steadfastness to the improvement of this country will be cherished for generations,” said DP Ruto.

“I wish to pass my condolences to the family of His Excellency Mwai Kibaki and pray that they bear the grave loss with fortitude.”

First Lady Margaret Kenyatta described Mama Lucy as a gracious, kind and humble lady who cherished and espoused strong family values.

“Mama Lucy was also a great mentor who helped in empowering girls to take charge of their destiny. As an educationist, she will be remembered for her passion in girl child education and as founding member of the Starehe Girls Centre.”

“Her Excellency championed many causes including campaigns against early marriages and female genital mutilation and her work with the less fortunate girls,” she said.

Amani National Congress (ANC) leader Musalia Mudavadi, National Assembly Majority Leader Aden Duale, Nairobi Senator Mike Mbuvi Sonko are among other leaders who have send their condolences to the family of Mama Lucy following her demise.

In a statement to media, Mudavadi remembered Mama Lucy for standing up for the rights of women calling on all Kenyans to join the Kibaki family in mourning her passing.

“Some may have been uncomfortable with her ‘Iron Lady’ status, but she carried with her the motto that behind a successful man, there is always an unapologetic woman,” he said.

“She stood by her husband in all adversity and never let go her maternal instincts towards protecting family. She left that imprint on many a Kenyan woman. May God rest her soul in eternal peace.”

@benjaminwafula