Deputy President William Ruto on Tuesday morning mourned the passing on of Former President Daniel Torotich arap Moi.
Speaking at his Harambee Annex office, DP Ruto eulogized the late Moi as a man who mentored so many leaders including himself.
“We will never forget Mzee’s legendary personal discipline and determination to serve God all the days of his life, and the lessons, as well as the example he has set for us, must enable us to strive to excel in our time. He taught and mentored many into leadership. I being one of them.
“Despite severe constraints imposed by the local, regional and international circumstances, Mzee’s determination ensured that Kenya never stumbled or slipped into the precipice that engulfed so many other nations
“It is sad to say goodbye to a man whose legacy we all feel, and we thank Almighty God for the gift of Mzee Moi’s leadership. In this sad moment of great loss, therefore, let us still rejoice because of what he did for his countrymen and countrywomen,” said Ruto.
DP Ruto’s statement came hours after resident Uhuru Kenyatta had broken the news of the late Moi’s death.
Moi died at Nairobi Hospital around 5:20 AM after several sending several days at the health facility.
He served Kenya for 24 years after taking over from Late Jomo Kenyatta in 1978.
Several leaders including ODM party leader Raila Odinga, Wiper boss Kalonzo Musyoka and their ANC counterpart Musalia Mudavadi issued a message of condolences to the family.
Raila in his statement said: “Moi and I reconciled after the political differences of the 1980s and early 90s and we were able to work together to bring more reforms to the country.
“Our cooperation gave way to a merger with his party KANU, which put the country firmly on the path to a new constitution by enabling the formation of the Constitution of Kenya Review Commission (CKRC).
“In his retirement, again to his credit, President Moi carried and conducted himself with complete dignity befitting an elder statesman.”
Wiper Leader on his part said: “I was privileged to serve under him as Member of Parliament, Assistant Minister, Deputy Speaker, and Minister as well as various roles under the then ruling party KANU.
“His love for his country beyond his personal interest. The best example was when he allowed the repeal of Article 2(a) of the constitution paving way for multiparty democracy and the peaceful manner in which he handed over after KANU lost in 2002.”
To Senate Majority Leader Kipchumba Murkomen: “I will remember HE Mzee Daniel Arap Moi for his effort to unite this nation and for his love and investment in matters education. Condolences to his immediate and extended family including my colleague Sen.Gideon Moi. Fare thee well Baba Moi.”