Political leaders on Tuesday paid glowing tribute to the late Former Livestock Minister and former Mbooni MP Joseph Munyao.
The leaders celebrated Munyao as a patriotic statesman whose decades of public service left an enduring impact on Kenya’s political and agricultural landscape.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka were among senior leaders who joined mourners at Nairobi Baptist Church to honour Munyao.
Gachagua described Munyao as a distinguished public servant who devoted his life to national service with loyalty and courage.
He noted the late politician’s steadfast support for former President Mwai Kibaki, especially during pivotal moments in Kenya’s political history.
“We are profoundly grateful for how Munyao stood steadfastly with the late President Mwai Kibaki through every challenge. He was a true friend of President Kibaki and will be remembered for his significant contributions to the formation and strengthening of the Democratic Party (DP),” Gachagua said.
He added that Munyao’s legacy underscores the importance of building strong political parties to foster the growth of our democracy.
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka remembered Munyao as one of the most disciplined and thoughtful legislators of his era, praising his clarity, humility, and unwavering commitment to uplifting the lives of Kenyans.
Joseph was not only a respected leader but one of the most dedicated public servants of his generation. He served the people of Mbooni with honour and distinction across three terms as their Member of Parliament,” he said.
Kalonzo highlighted Munyao’s instrumental role in shaping Kenya’s political trajectory as a founding member of the Democratic Party under Mwai Kibaki, noting that he remained loyal to the party until his last day, serving as its patron.
He also credited Munyao with spearheading major reforms in the livestock sector, particularly his leadership in reviving the Kenya Meat Commission (KMC) and restoring confidence in an institution that had long struggled.
“His leadership revitalised the livestock sector and brought renewed hope to pastoral and farming communities across our country,” Kalonzo said.
The Wiper leader called for a turnaround at KMC, one of the strongest testaments to Munyao’s integrity and competence.
Both leaders described Munyao as gentle, principled and wise, a quiet yet powerful presence who inspired trust and respect.
Munyao’s passing, they said, leaves a void in Kenyan politics, but his legacy of patriotism, discipline and institution-building will remain a guiding example for future generations.
The former CS passed away on November 22, 2025, while receiving treatment at a hospital in Nairobi.
Munyao's career spanned both the single-party and multi-party eras in Kenyan politics. He is remembered for contributions to livestock policy and infrastructure development in rural areas during his ministerial tenure.
