Leaders and the public from across the political divide yesterday thronged the Consolata Shrine in Westlands for Mama Lucy Kibaki’s Requiem Mass.
It was a function devoid of politics at the family’s request, despite Mama Lucy being a politician in her own right. As early as 7am, Kenyans were seated in the church for the mass, which did not start until well after 10am.
Roads leading to the church were cleared, as mourners milled the roadsides, to catch a glimpse of the casket.
The National Youth Service personnel, regular and Administration Police and the GSU controlled the crowd and provided security in and outside the church compound.
At exactly 9.45am, a black Mercedes Benz hearse made its way into the Consolata Shrine compound under tight security by the military and police.
Behind the hearse was a black Mercedes Benz carrying retired President Mwai Kibaki and his daughter Judith Wanjiku.
By this time, the seats inside the church were filled with dignitaries who had arrived to attend the mass. They included Cord leader Raila Odinga, former vice presidents Moody Awori, Musalia Mudavadi and Kalonzo Musyoka, Cabinet Secretaries and senior government officials.
Othaya MP Mary Wambui was among the first VIPs to arrive and took a position in the middle of the church.
The body remained in the hearse until President Uhuru Kenyatta and First Lady Margaret arrived at 9.55am.
Kibaki, looking depressed, tired and sorrowful, got out of the car immediately the President arrived. Cardinal John Njue said a short prayer outside the church.
Uhuru described Mama Lucy as a principled woman who strongly supported her family.
“She was committed to causes but there were no half-ways with her. You are either on her right side or wrong side,” he said.
