Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi and Senator Mithika Linturi have described former President Mwai Kibaki as a mentor in career progression.
Kiraitu termed Kibaki as a reformist, a philosopher, a non-tribal, visionary and a man of integrity who championed the highest economic recovery of 7 per cent GDP.
“Kibaki was intelligent, honourable and respected everyone. He was a nationalist whose key role in the independence of Kenya is immeasurable,” he said.
Kiraitu said Kibaki wrote the 1963 Kanu manifesto and was not concerned about where you came from but where you were headed to.
“He initiated and inaugurated Kenya’s vision 2030 development blueprint through his think tank,” the governor said.
“He introduced free primary school education and appointed me Energy minister where we connected 1 million Kenyans with electricity.”
Linturi said the former President will be remembered for ushering in economic reforms, free education and a new constitution among development records.
“Today the former President's legacy remains untainted over the years, with his development track record seen as a major reason for Kenya's rapid economic growth during his 10-year tenure,” the senator said.
“The former President will always be touted as one of the greatest leaders in Kenyan history. It is sad to say goodbye to a man whose legacy we all felt.”
Meru residents said Kibaki was the best President to have championed several infrastructural developments in the county.
Alex Mwiti said most roads in Meru were constructed during Kibaki’s tenure and Meru also benefited from several state appointments.
“I returned to primary school after he introduced free education and am proud of his leadership,” he said.
Alice Gakii said the boda boda sector introduced by the late President is still a game-changer in terms of employment and ease of transportation.
Edited by Kiilu Damaris
