Uhuru Kenyatta Mourns Frank Ireri, Opens Up on His Own Health Challenges
Frank was always there to encourage us. He had gone through similar challenges and offered us a lot of guidance on how to deal with them,” he said.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta delivering his speech during Raila Odinga's State Funeral at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, October 17.
By Ruth sang
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has paid an emotional tribute to his longtime friend, Frank Ireri, who succumbed to cancer after a long battle. Eulogizing during Ireri’s funeral service on Friday, October 31, Uhuru appeared to indirectly confirm persistent rumors of his health struggles, while stating that he shares a similar medical journey with his late friend.
An elated Ireri listened as the retired head of state praised him for being his source of strength and inspiration during his personal health fight. Though he did not say what kind of illness he had been facing, Uhuru insinuated that for the last two years, he had been dealing with some serious health problems and that Ireri’s experience had led the way during that period.
“I am not sure whether I should say this, but these are the realities of life. For most of last year and this year, Frank was always there to encourage us. He had gone through similar challenges and offered us a lot of guidance on how to deal with them,” he said.
Uhuru went ahead to express profound gratitude towards Ireri’s unwavering support, saying that his advice and comfort played a vital role in his trying moments. “I will truly miss his wisdom and encouragement. He often told us not to worry because everything we were going through would eventually pass,” he added.
These remarks by the former president appeared to confirm speculation that he might still be undergoing treatment or recovery. He reflected that he had accepted both life and death as part of God’s will. “Frank has finished his race because it was his time. For those of us still fighting similar battles, we will keep pressing on, but when our time comes, we will be ready to join him and be thankful for the life we have lived,” he said emotionally.
Uhuru’s remarks come after months of speculation concerning his health, which started making rounds early this year. The rumors gained momentum from his reduced public engagement and physical changes, especially his bald head, perceived by many to be a sign of chemotherapy. Observers also pointed out that he sometimes seemed breathless even during speeches. However, close associates dismissed the speculation as baseless. Jubilee Party official Pauline Njoroge, during that time, termed the reports “false and malicious,” assuring the public that Uhuru was in good health.
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