President Kenyatta has led the country in mourning Nyamira Governor John Nyagarama, who passed away today morning over COVID-19 related complications.
The late governor died while undergoing treatment at the Nairobi Hospital where he has been hospitalised for a while now.
President Kenyatta identified Nyangarama as a distinguished and true servant of the people whose contribution to the development of the tea sector in Kenya and service to the people of Nyamira county.
“Governor John Nyagarama was a friendly, approachable, wise, witty and kind leader. He shall be dearly missed.” he eulogised him.
He wished Nyagarama’s family and the people of NyamiraCounty God’s comfort and fortitude as they come to terms with the County leader’s death.
The Council of Governors have also condoled with the family, friends and the people of Nyamira County for the demise of Nyagarama.
In a statement, the COG described the late governor as a humble and a stickler to the administrative order which was demonstrated during his first tenure where he served in Education Committee.
“The Council of Governor have not only lost a great leader but a focused, action-oriented man who served the people of Nyamirawith diligence and love. He was humble and a stickler to the administrative order which was demonstrated during his first tenure where he served in Education Committee, having been a trained, qualified and experienced teacher.” the statement read.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i said the government will regroup and organise the burial of Nyamira Governor John Nyagarama.
“…he has been unwell and his sons and daughters are all here. We have just arrived here and we will regroup and see what we can do,” he said.
Addressing the press outside Lee Funeral Home on Friday, Matiangi said the family will have their plans before they can liase with the government on the same.
“It is very sad. Nyagarama was a decent man and he was everyone’s father and elder.. ” Matiang’i said.
Matiang’i who was mourning the governor said he was calm, and had a strong sense of unity in the county.
“Let us keep together and pray for this family that the lord may strengthen them,” he added.
Nyangarama, 74, was taken to the hospital three weeks ago when he tested positive for coronavirus.
He was put on life support on Sunday night and his family was called in on Monday after his condition deteriorated.
He was immediately admitted to the Covid-19 ICU “as he required a lot of oxygen”.