Political leaders have paid tribute to former Livestock Minister and Mbooni MP Joseph K. Munyao, describing him as a devoted public servant whose life and work left a lasting impact on the nation.
Munyao died aged 85. He was also a Former Mbooni MP.
Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) leader Kalonzo Musyoka expressed deep sadness over Munyao’s passing. “I am deeply saddened as I join the Munyao family, friends, and the Nation in mourning the passing of Hon. Joseph K. Munyao,” he said.
Kalonzo highlighted Munyao’s humility and discipline. “Joseph was a quiet yet powerful presence, humble, disciplined, and always placing the service of others above himself. He was more than a steady hand; he carried himself with humility, grace, and a deep respect for all. His presence anchored every room he entered,” he said.
The WPF leader said Munyao embodied selfless service. “Our elder brother was the embodiment of a devoted public servant working tirelessly for ordinary Kenyans with a sincerity that is increasingly rare today. His guiding principle was simple yet profound: service for the people,” Kalonzo added.
He drew on scripture to comfort the bereaved family. “As the Lord says in the Book of Mathew Chapter 25 verse 25: ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’”
Kalonzo said he hoped these words would offer solace. “May this promise bring you comfort, knowing that Joseph’s faithful life and service have been recognised in the highest place,” he said.
He also expressed solidarity with the Munyao family: “To the entire Munyao family, I stand with you in this difficult time. I pray that God carries you through this valley of grief and that the memory of Joseph, his discipline, his humour and his calm strength remains a warm, enduring reminder of the blessing he was. May the Lord grant Hon. Joseph K. Munyao eternal rest and comfort all who loved him.”
Former Speaker of the National Assembly Justin Muturi also conveyed his condolences. “I have received the news of the passing of Hon. Joseph K. Munyao with deep sorrow and a profound sense of loss,” he said.
Muturi recalled Munyao’s political contributions. “Hon. Munyao was not only a respected leader but one of the distinguished founder members of the Democratic Party in December 1991. His commitment, clarity of purpose, and unwavering belief in a democratic and prosperous Kenya helped shape the political landscape of our nation,” he said.
He also acknowledged Munyao’s service as a minister. “As Patron of the DP and a dedicated Minister for Livestock during the Kibaki administration, he served the country with diligence, vision, and an admirable sense of duty,” Muturi said.
Muturi said Munyao’s work would be remembered. “His contribution to our nation’s political journey and public service will forever remain etched in our collective memory. On behalf of the Democratic Party, my family, and myself, I extend heartfelt condolences to his loved ones. May the grace of God grant them comfort and peace during this difficult moment. May his legacy endure, and may his soul rest in eternal peace,” he added.
Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula also offered his condolences. “It is with profound sorrow that I have received the news of the passing of Hon. Joseph Munyao, former Mbooni MP and a distinguished Cabinet Minister,” he said.
Wetang’ula described Munyao as a true leader. “Kenya has lost a true son of the soil and a leader whose journey continues to inspire many,” he said. He also spoke of Munyao’s personal qualities and career trajectory. “Hon. Munyao embodied resilience and determination. From humble beginnings as an accounts clerk, he rose, through hard work, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to service to the high office of Cabinet Minister,” Wetang’ula said.
The messages from these leaders underline Munyao’s enduring impact on Kenyan politics and public service. They highlight his humility, discipline, and commitment to ordinary citizens. Munyao’s career, they said, reflects a lifetime of service marked by integrity, calm strength, and dedication.
Through these condolences, Kenyan leaders have sought to offer comfort to the Munyao family and celebrate a life dedicated to public service. The tributes emphasise that Munyao’s legacy will continue to inspire current and future generations of leaders.
Munyao is remembered as a steadfast public servant whose legacy of humility and service will continue to be celebrated across the nation.
Munyao, who passed away today, was born May 4, 1940, in Makueni County.
A seasoned Kenyan politician, he served as Mbooni Constituency MP for three non-consecutive terms.
He was Minister for Livestock and Fisheries Development under President Mwai Kibaki.
Before politics, he worked as a bank clerk and later in the provincial administration; he also served in the Kenyan embassy in Moscow.
