Kenyan and Ugandan Leaders Join Family to Send Off Late Gogo Esther Tapsiarga Lelei in Kuinet
The family said the overwhelming support has given them strength and comfort as they prepare to lay Gogo Esther to rest at her home in Kuinet.
Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago mourning her mother. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
Leaders, relatives and friends from Kenya and Uganda on Tuesday came together to accompany the body of the late Gogo Esther Tapsiarga Lelei (1934–2026) from Eldoret Hospital mortuary to her home at Sigen Farm in Kuinet, ahead of her burial.
The solemn procession was an emotional moment for both the family and the community, underscoring the respect and admiration accorded to the departed matriarch. She was eulogised as a symbol of unity, wisdom and strength whose legacy touched many generations.
Several senior government officials and political leaders attended the ceremony, among them Principal Secretary for Agriculture Paul Ronoh, Aurelia Rono from the State Department for Parliamentary Affairs under the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary, Principal Secretary for Shipping and Maritime Affairs Aden A. Millah, and Soy MP Hon. David Kiplagat.
The event also drew a senior delegation from Uganda, reflecting the close cross-border relationships shared by the family. Those present included H.E. Mahmoud Shallo, Ambassador of the Pan African Movement; Hon. Isaac Malinga Malikut, MP for Soi County; Hon. Sange Jackline, Woman MP for Kween District; Hon. Mangusho Lawrence Cherop, former MP for Kween County; Bukwo District Governor and LC5 Chairman Chesol Tom Komu; Kween District Governor and LC5 Chairman Chelolgoi Geoffrey; Hon. Kiri Peter, MP for Too County; and Chumek K. William, Chairman of the Soi County Elders.
Other leaders in attendance were Chepsukunya Town Council Mayor Chebet Siraji, Yandan Abubakar, the NRM Chairman for Bukwo District, Mangusho Stephen from Kween District, and Bukwo District MCA Solimo Ronex.
Representatives from the business and health sectors also joined the procession, including Anil Shah of Yako Supermarkets and Dr. Lodia, the Director of Eldoret Hospital.
On behalf of the family, Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago thanked leaders, friends and members of the public for their solidarity, noting the encouragement shown through condolence visits, prayers, messages and calls.
The family said the overwhelming support has given them strength and comfort as they prepare to lay Gogo Esther to rest at her home in Kuinet.
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