Leaders from across the political divide have mourned the abrupt death of Interior CS Joseph Nkaissery terming him a gallant soldier and a robust leader.
President Uhuru Kenyatta said on Saturday morning that the passing on of the CS was a big blow to Kenyans, his family, and the Maasai community.
“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.
Foreign Affairs CS Amina Mohamed called for peace and harmony during “this tough time” of mourning.
She 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.”
“I’m deeply saddened by the loss of our dear beloved colleague General Nkaissery. We will miss you greatly.” Information CS Joe Mucheru said in a tweet.
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.”
UK High Commissioner to Kenya Nic Hailey referred to the CS as a great partner of Britain.
“Very sad news. CS Nkaissery was a good friend and strong partner of the UK in working for our shared security and we mourn his untimely death.”
Kuresoi South MP Zakayo Cheruiyot, a former Permanent Secretary for Internal Security during retired President Daniel Moi’s regime said Nkaissery was a no-nonsense officer who restored peace in the country from Alshabaab militants
“I heard the news of the loss of my long term friend whom I have known since he was a youth with sorrow. On behalf of my family, and Kuresoi constituents, I pray for the family so that God may strengthen them during this time,” he said.
“My friend who served the Nation with diligence died when the country needed him most. It will be hard to replace him,” the former Rift Valley Deputy PC said.
Bungoma Senator Moses Wetangula expressed shock at the loss of the CS, referring to him as a statesman, a patriot, a respected leader, a neighbor.
“Nkaissery was a man with a good heart, he never carried grudges and made friends across the political divide with ease. Even as he passes on, it’s without a doubt that Joseph Nkaissery has left an indelible mark on the political landscape in Kenya.” Wetangula said.
ODM political affair secretary and Ugunja MP said Nkaissery was a respected leader, dedicated to the service of the nation.
“My condolences to the Nkaissery family. I differed with him many times on political issues but I respected his opinion all the same. My last encounter with him was in early June when he appeared before us at the Parliamentary Committee on National Security,” he said. -The Star
