Rigathi Gachagua Mourns Johanna Ngeno, Hails Him as a Fearless Defender of His People
The former deputy president asked God to give the family strength and comfort during their time of intense sorrow which he called their painful and difficult period.
The Late Johana Ngeno. Photo/ Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
Former Deputy President Says Kenya Has Lost a Courageous and Principled Leader
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua paid tribute to Johanna Ngeno through his emotional tribute which he delivered to honor Ngeno as a courageous public leader who dedicated himself to fighting for the rights and needs of his people.
Gachagua issued his statement after the Member of Parliament for Emurua Dikirr died by explaining that Kenya had lost a brave public servant who dedicated his life to fighting for justice and representing his community rights.
A Personal Loss and a National Tragedy
Gachagua described Ngeno not only as a colleague but also as a close friend and trusted political ally. He stated that writing the tribute caused him deep pain because the legislator had died while the country had lost a leader who worked for the people he represented.
Ngeno established his leadership style through three main values which included courage and integrity and selflessness according to the former deputy president. The late lawmaker dedicated himself to serving his constituents which earned him respect from people throughout the South Rift region and beyond.
Gachagua stated that Ngeno defended the Kipsigis community interests throughout his life because they had faced continuous marginalization since their community substantially contributed to Kenya’s economic development.
Championing the South Rift Region
The former deputy president said the late MP frequently highlighted the challenges facing residents of the South Rift, including poor infrastructure and limited development opportunities.
Gachatua explained that Ngeno believed the national government should invest more resources into the region because of its agricultural capabilities and economic growth potential.
He recalled that the legislator was known for speaking openly about these concerns and consistently urged authorities to address what he described as long-standing neglect affecting the community.
Facing Political Resistance
According to Gachagua, Ngeno’s outspoken approach to leadership often placed him at odds with powerful political figures. He said the MP sometimes faced resistance and isolation due to his firm stand on issues affecting his constituents.
The former deputy president revealed that he had personally intervened to assist Ngeno during multiple instances when people tried to prevent him from entering crucial government sites.
He claimed that at certain times political forces tried to undermine the legislator’s influence, including attempts to deny him entry to State House. Gachagua explained that despite encountering numerous obstacles Ngeno continued his struggle to represent his community.
Parliamentary Struggles and Political Tensions
Gachagua also recalled standing alongside the MP during political battles in Parliament. He mentioned that one particular instance involved various leaders working to stop Ngeno from becoming the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee chairperson for Housing.
The former deputy president criticized what he termed as hypocrisy among some politicians who had opposed Ngeno during his lifetime but are now publicly expressing grief following his death.
He remarked that it was regrettable some people who had previously discredited the former legislator now acted like they were mourning him.
Condolences to Family and Constituents
Gachatua chose to direct his main message towards Ngeno’s family and his constituents despite the ongoing critiques which multiple political figures faced.
He stated that the MP’s death would leave a deep void not only within his family but also among the residents of Emurua Dikirr and the wider Kipsigis community.
The former deputy president asked God to give the family strength and comfort during their time of intense sorrow which he called their painful and difficult period.
Remembering a Courageous Leader
Gachaua concluded his tribute by describing Ngeno as a leader who stood firmly for justice even when it meant standing alone.
He said the late MP’s determination to defend the interests of his people would remain part of his lasting legacy.
Johanna Ngeno served as the Member of Parliament for Emurua Dikirr Constituency and was widely recognized for his outspoken advocacy on governance, community rights, and development issues affecting the South Rift region.
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