Mzee Peter Musyoka Mairu, the father of former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka’s father, had wished to see his son become President before his death.
Campell Munyambu, coordinator of the Kitui Business Community and Professional Forum and a confidant of Mzee Mairu, revealed that when they last met in August, Kalonzo’s father told him it was his wish that his son becomes Kenya’s fifth president.
The 94-year old Mairu passed on late last month before he could see Kalozno occupy the house on the hill.
The Standard quoted family and neighbors describing the Mzee Mairu as a great pillar in his son’s political career, who mentored him on the importance of loyalty and humility.
Incidentally, the former Vice President’s mother, who died in 2006 was believed to have had a strong wish for her son to rise to the highest office in the land.
He has been credited for giving constructive criticism without hurting anyone’s feelings.
“The old man would give constructive criticism without hurting anyone’s feelings. To me he was a special person who would even sit with his son’s sworn political critics and engage them in friendly and positive debate. We have lost a man and a leader who had a big vision for his family and the region. We will miss him dearly,” said Mutati.
In the popular book, Peeling Back the Mask, author Miguna Miguna quotes ODM Leader Raila Odinga making reference to Kalonzo’s desire for the Presidency as primarily driven by the fact that his mother, a seer, had predicted it.
“Kalonzo is so shallow and self-absorbed; I can never work with him again. He believes that he was ordained President because his mother, who was a ‘seer,’ predicted it,” Odinga says as quoted by Miguna.
Various leaders have been visiting Kalonzo’s home in Karen to condole with him during this trying moment. Others have also sent condolence messages to the former VP.
Deputy President William Ruto termed the late Mairu as an affable and caring gentleman who supported the needy and contributed to worthy causes in the society.
“Mzee Peter Musyoka Mairu was an affable, caring gentleman, who supported the needy and contributed to worthy causes in society. He was cherished, adored and leaves fond memories to his loved ones,” said Ruto.
Kalonzo and his family settled for the 9th of November as the date his father will finally be laid to rest.