Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daily Nation
Published on 2024-02-05 06:35:25
The family of Kenya’s second president, Daniel Toroitich Arap Moi, led by Kanu leader Gideon Moi, commemorated the fourth anniversary of his death on Sunday. The memorial service took place at the late former president’s home in Kabarak, Nakuru County.
Mzee Moi served as Kenya’s Vice President for 12 years before becoming the Head of State for 24 years. He passed away on February 4, 2020, and was given a state funeral at his Kabarak home. The low-key event was attended by family and friends and was marked by prayers, songs, and sermons, reflecting the immense love for God that the late Moi had.
The memorial service included Mzee’s favorite hymns, performed by the Kabarak University Choir, and lasted for about four hours. Kabarak University Vice Chancellor Prof Henry Kiplagat honored Mzee as a servant leader and peace icon, highlighting his love for God and dedication to the country.
Unlike previous years when the event was graced by political figures and government officials, this year’s anniversary was a private family affair. Led by former Baringo Senator Gideon Moi, the family spoke fondly of the late president, reminiscing about his values of honesty, discipline, hard work, and strong Christian faith which they strive to live by.
The ceremony involved scripture readings, laying of wreaths at the eight-column mausoleum where Moi and his late wife Lorna lie, and speeches by family members and friends. Each pillar of the mausoleum represents their eight children, symbolizing the late president’s commitment to his family. Former Rongai MP Raymond Moi emphasized their determination to promote and live by the good values Mzee nurtured, ensuring that his legacy lives on.
The family members also visited Mzee Moi’s resting place, laying wreaths in honor of a man described as a strong pillar whose legacy will endure for many years to come. Mzee Moi was accorded a state funeral and was buried next to his late wife Lena Moi, who passed away in 2004. His funeral was the sixth state funeral in Kenya, and only the second to receive full military honors, the other being given to former President Jomo Kenyatta in 1978.
Former Vice President Kijana Wamalwa, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Wangari Maathai, and several former governors and First Lady Lucy Kibaki were given state funerals without the military element. The funerals of the two former presidents included military pallbearers, gun salutes, performances by Kenya Defence Forces bands and choirs, and chaplains from military and religious groups.
The family of the late President Moi used this occasion to honor his memory and emphasize their commitment to upholding the values and principles he ingrained in them. Despite being a private affair, the commemoration served as a reminder of the significant impact Mzee Moi had on the nation and his family, and how his legacy continues to be celebrated and cherished.
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