DP William Ruto has narrated to mourners how he became a victim of late Simeon Nyachae’s beating.
Ruto while eulogising Nyachae as a strict, loving and forgiving father figure, said on several occasions, he found himself on the receiving end.
“We celebrate a great patriotic Kenyan, an administrator and public servant, a brave and courageous politician," he said.
"Despite age differences, we had a relationship and on many occasions, I want to confess that I was a victim of his canning."
Ruto in his sentiments said apart from the physical blows, Nyachae made sure that politically, they walked on the right path.
While recalling an incident in Nyamarambe constituency, Ruto said he and Omingo Magara received several strokes from Nyachae after they publicly misbehaved.
“Micheal, Nyachae's son, was sent for the strokes ... We later looked for him at his home where we asked for forgiveness and he was so gracious to us,” Ruto said.
Ruto said Nyachae’s character and personality is a legacy that will leave on forever.
“As he lies here, I believe he is speaking to all of us loudly. He had options of waiting to share what his father had, but he chose a different route by creating more wealth,” Ruto said.
The DP said if all leaders would emulate Nyachae’s character, more wealth will be created in the country.
ODM leader Raila Odinga in his sentiments termed Nyachae as a dedicated leader.
Raila said Nyachae played a key role in the formation of the National Rainbow Coalition of Kenya that saw former President Mwai Kibaki ascend to presidency.
He said Nyachae was a great statesman and a patriot who would not do anything to compromise on his integrity.
