President Uhuru Kenyatta, Deputy President William Ruto, ODM leader Raila Odinga and former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka are among top politicians who have mourned former Attorney-General Charles Njonjo.
The former minister's death was announced on Sunday by President Uhuru Kenyatta who said Njonjo's death is big blow to the country.
The President prayed for comfort to the family and friends of Njonjo whom he described as a national hero, as they go through this difficult period.
"The passing away of Hon. Njonjo is a big blow not only to his immediate family, friends and relatives but to all Kenyans and indeed, the entire African continent because of his leading role in the founding of the Kenyan nation at independence," Uhuru said.
DP Ruto in his message of condolence said Charles Njonjo devoted his life in serving his country in pre-and post-independent Kenya.
Working as a civil servant, Attorney-General, Kikuyu MP and Constitutional Affairs Minister, Ruto said Njonjo was "knowledgeable, blunt and a dedicated advocate for the causes he believed in."
Opposition leader Raila said the news of Njonjo's passing shocked both him and his wife Mama Ida Odinga.
"As a nation, we have lost a towering giant who served in key roles during his life. Our legal fraternity greatly benefitted from his input and hard work," Raila said.
On his part, Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka said Njonjo will be remembered as an icon for shaping the history of this nation and Kenyans owe him gratitude for his contributions towards progressive constitutionalism.
"As a stickler for the letter of the law, following the death of Kenya’s first president in 1978, Hon.Njonjo defended the constitution against a scheme seeking to bar the then Vice President from taking over power.We therefore had a smooth transition of power that ushered in President Daniel Arap Moi." Kalonzo said.
"He was also a valiant crusader against corruption. During the Chepkube ‘black gold' coffee scandal, Hon.Njonjo was prepared to resign if the key perpetrators of the scandal did not resign from cabinet and parliament."
"Hon.Njonjo was also an astute business man and a democratic statesman .He stood with us and supported our course as CORD and subsequently NASA. Mzee was always persuaded by his ideals and not tribal affiliation."
The former Vice President said Njonjo was there to console him when he lost his mother in 2006.
"He was indeed a caring elderly statesman."
Kiambu Governor James Nyoro, acknowledged Njonjo as the only surviving member of Kenya’s independence cabinet.
"A proud son of Kabete, fondly referred to as the ‘Duke of Kabeteshire’, the late Njonjo served this country with distinction. As the people of Kiambu, we deeply feel this loss. We pray that God grants his family peace during this trying moment, and may his soul rest in eternal peace," Njoro said.
