Trans Nzoia Governor Patrick Khaemba on Tuesday unveiled a commemorative statue of multiparty democracy hero Masinde Muliro at Kitale Bus Park.
The occasion was graced by elders from the 18 subtribes of the Luhya community and overseen by Muliro's family members, led by his first son Mwambu.
The eight-foot bronze statue rests on a six-foot concrete pedestal.
Muliro played a critical role in the fight for Kenya's second liberation.
Mwambu said the family was grateful for the honour bestowed upon his father.
"We feel honoured by the government's gesture recognising the role our father played in political reforms in this country with regard to the push for constitutional reforms," he said.
"We also wish to extend our gratitude to our brother, Governor Patrick Khaemba, for the recognition of the efforts of our deceased patriarch,"
Muliro's other son, Musoke Nabruk, praised the county government and Luhya eminent persons for honouring his father.
Musoke is in the race for Trans Nzoia senator race.
Governor Khaemba said Masinde Muliro engaged in issue-based politics that were responsible for economic empowerment among residents and honouring him was long overdue.
"Besides this statue, we are naming the newly built bus park and the business centre in honour of Masinde Muliro. I would like all aspiring leaders to ape the political style of this fallen hero," the county boss said.
The outgoing county boss enumerated his administration's achievements, saying he has built a firm foundation for whoever will succeed him.
He lashed out at those sabotaging his flagship projects, telling them not to do so to whoever will take the mantle from him.
"It is very disturbing to see some people just going to court to stop what we have been doing. Give the new government support to realise development," he said.
Former Cabinet minister Musikari Kombo said Muliro was a nationalist who tirelessly fought for the opening up of democratic space in the country. He urged current leaders from the region to emulate Muliro.
"Muliro was a man who transcended the village, region and the whole country to fight for the first and second liberation. He was a man of peace who never advocated violence," Kombo said.
Among the elders who attended the occasion included the chairman of the Luhya Elders Forum Patrick Wangamati, Phillip Nyarotso, Dominic Wetangula, Maurice Makhanu and Richard Walukano.
Edited by A.N
