Kenyans and their leaders are paying tribute and condolences to the family and friends of the late Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph Nkaissery who died on Saturday aged 67.
The news of Nkaissery’s death, broke on Saturday from the Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Joseph Kinyua triggering various responses from the public, politicians and fellow cabinet secretaries expressing sadness at the passing of the General who had left behind a rich legacy of service to the country.
Various leaders across the nation led by President Uhuru Kenyatta sent their condolences to the bereaved families.
The Head of State described his demise as, “This death comes at a critical time in Kenya’s history as we approach a general election.”
“I have personally lost a friend. We spent the entire day yesterday (Friday) praying for the peace of our nation. We held discussions with the CS as late as 9.30pm. Nkaissery was one of the best in my government,” Uhuru said.
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Opposition leader Raila Odinga mourned Nkaissery referring him as “a patriot and firm believer of a better Kenya”. He described his death as a big blow to the nation, his family and to his Maasai Community.
“He fought and has been fighting against the use of small firearms in the country and has been representing the country internationally in security forums,” said Raila while in Mombasa.
Still struggling to understand the death of General Joseph Nkaissery. My condolences to Hellen, family, the Maa community and Kenyans. pic.twitter.com/fZr6RYs0To
— Raila Odinga (@RailaOdinga) July 8, 2017
He said his devotion to serving Kenyans was commendable and that he had no differences with him.
“I had no personal differences with him, we just differed politically and we pray that his soul rests in peace. We will join forces to ensure that the CS is laid to rest accordingly,” he stated.
“We now await the outcome of the postmortem to know how the CS passed away as we mourn with other Kenyans in this difficult time,” Raila added.
Former President Daniel Arap Moi mourned the death of Nkaissery describing him as a man who served this country with exceptional energy and dedication.
Kalanzo Musyoka on the other hand also noted that the CS’s death comes as a shock to the country.
“I am sending my deepest condolences to the family and the people of Kajiado. And to the country as a whole,” said Kalozo Musyoka.
Duale: I have lost a very close friend who was like my dad #RIPNkaissery pic.twitter.com/bd87J5QLhz
— NTV Kenya (@ntvkenya) July 8, 2017
Foreign Affairs CS Amina Mohamed termed Nkaissery as a jolly and good-hearted leader in the three years she worked with him.
“It is with shock and deep sorrow that I have learnt of the sudden demise of Cabinet colleague CS Joseph Nkaissery. May God comfort his family. He was always available for consultation and made our Cabinet engagements such an enjoyable experience. We worked in perfect concert.”
Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero termed Nkaissery as a friend saying the CS was in good health as they had spent the day together during the National prayers held at Uhuru Park on Friday.
“I am deeply shocked at the news of General Nkaissery who I was with yesterday. Fare thee well General. My condolences to his family.”
Josphat Nanok, Chairman, Council of Governors said, “The late Gen. Nkaissery will be remembered for his uncompromising stand on matters of security, having inherited the docket at the height of Al Shabaab Militia attacks in the Country. He quickly stamped his authority on the docket and restored the faith of Kenyans in the ability of the State to protect them against such attacks.”
I’m deeply saddened by the loss of our dear beloved colleague General Nkaissery. We will miss you greatly #RIPNkaissery
— CS Joe Mucheru EGH (@mucheru) July 8, 2017
Very sad to hear. Our sympathies to CS Nkaissery’s family, and to the people of Kenya. https://t.co/nGBJkjfr5r
— John Feakes (@AusHCKenya) July 8, 2017
I am greatly saddened to learn about the tragic demise of Gen. Nkaissery. Please see my message below. pic.twitter.com/2GdPDb3WKJ
— David Maraga (@dkmaraga) July 8, 2017
Saddened by the loss of brother @GenNkaisserry. The nation has lost a great man. Thoughts and prayers with his family. #RIPNkaissery pic.twitter.com/SqNo99ZVNZ
— Abbas Gullet (@Abbas_Gullet) July 8, 2017
On behalf of the pple of KK County & on my own behalf I join the rest of the Nation in mourning the passing on of Interior CS @GenNkaisserry
— Wycliffe Oparanya (@GovWOparanya) July 8, 2017
I had the honour of serving with @GenNkaisserry in the 9th & 10th Parliaments. He was a good debator & a man who NEVER wavered on his stand
— Wycliffe Oparanya (@GovWOparanya) July 8, 2017
Condolences on the passing on of Interior CS Nkaisserry, a founder member of ODM. He has left an indelible mark in the country’s leadership
— The ODM Party (@TheODMparty) July 8, 2017
