Uhuru Issues Directive To Matiang'i Ahead Of Magoha's Burial

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has issued a directive to former Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Fred Matiang'i ahead of the burial of the late former Education Cabinet Secretary (CS) George Magoha.

According to digital communication strategist Pauline Njoroge, Kenya's fourth president had directed Matiang'i to form a committee consisting of other former CSs in his Cabinet.

The former CSs will also work with the family of the late Prof Magoha to ensure he is given a befitting send-off.

Portraits of former President Uhuru Kenyatta and the late former Education CS, George Magoha. /PAULINE NJOROGE

"H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta directs former CS Fred Matiangi to form a committee of other former CSs in his cabinet, and work with the family of their colleague the late Prof. George Magoha to ensure that this national hero is given a befitting send-off," she stated on Wednesday, January 25.

This is despite the burial date of the late Magoha yet to be determined by the time of publication. Friends, family and political leaders had earlier streamed to his home to visit the bereaved family and to pay their last respects.

Former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, revealed details of the last conversation he had with Magoha before he passed away on Tuesday, January 24.

“We have been speaking on phone. The last time we spoke was two weeks ago and we were talking about the transition. I think he had gone to an interview at Maseno University," Raila stated, further adding that they were also discussing burial preparations for his brother, who will be laid to rest on Saturday, January 28.

The Orange Democratic Movement(ODM) Leader described his death as a massive loss to that nation, describing him as a man who dedicated his life to helping Kenyans.

On his part, former Jubilee Secretary General Raphael Tuju who served in the same cabinet as Magoha, expressed his shock on learning about his death, having spent the previous afternoon together.

Tuju added that Magoha had no indications that he was feeling unwell when he last met him, save for a moment where he expressed that he felt exhausted.

"I did not know that the next time I would be visiting the home would be because of his death. The passing on of Prof Magoha is a reminder to all of us that we are mere mortals.

"As colleagues, we are devastated. I think I was here on Monday, January 23, afternoon when we were discussing the funeral arrangements of his brother,” Tuju stated.

Magoha, Tuju added, was at the centre of the team that was working on the preparations for the burial of the brother who had passed on while in the United States. 

"As a colleague, I am very devastated by the loss. I pray for the family because it is a very difficult time for them," he added.