The announcement of the Death of former President Daniel Torotich arap Moi by president Uhuru Kenyatta definitely marked the end of an error for a man who not only served Kenyans for the longest period ever but also of the man who made a notable contribution to the well being of the nation.
His achievements, message of peace and style of leadership was one of a kind that branded him as a man with no mean stature.
Born in 1924, the late Moi had four years 8 months shy a century.
The Late Moi served Kenyans for 24 years from 1978 to 2002.
Led by President Uhuru Kenyatta, Kenyans eulogized the retired president in different ways that they knew him.
“AS WE MOURN THE PASSING of an African Icon, our heartfelt condolences go out to his Children, Relatives and Close Friends. We will never forget that even as he served Kenya, Africa, and the World; the Late Mzee Moi remained a deeply committed family man, a loving Husband, Father, Grandfather and earnest Friend to so many.
“While they undoubtedly grieve his passing, I wish to assure them
that Mzee Moi lives on in the hearts of the Millions of Kenyans who benefited from his servant-leadership, and in the peaceful, harmonious and united Kenya that was built in large part by the works of his hands,” said Uhuru in a statement.
ODM Party in a statement written on social media said: “Pres. Daniel Toroitich Arap Moi was a great leader & a fine gentleman. His unwavering dedication & devotion to Church, uniting Kenyans, quality education for school children, environmental conservation & both local & world peace is a testament to his high principles.”
Council of Governors also issued a statement saying: “We join the family, friends and fellow Kenyan’s as we mourn the passing on of former president Daniel Torotich Arap Moi.”
We join the family, friends and fellow Kenyan's as we mourn the passing on of former president Daniel Torotich Arap Moi #RIPMoi pic.twitter.com/uZKxeEf80U
— Council of Governors (@KenyaGovernors) February 4, 2020
Senior political leaders in the country also took to social media to condole with the family of the former President.
Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot eulogized the late Moi as an icon who gave the best for the sake of his county.
The Senator tweeted: “An Icon of our society. Leadership is a sacrifice. You gave the best you could in very difficult circumstances. Fare thee well 2nd father of our nation.”
City Lawyer Donald Kipkorir tweeted: “Dear President Daniel Toroitich Arap Moi, as you lie in the bosom of Abraham, know that I am truly grateful for your leadership, wisdom & guidance …. We had the most improbable crossing of paths & you offered me your friendship … I celebrate your life.”
Besides, many Kenyans defied the chilling colds of Tuesday morning to take to social media to comment on the saddening news that Kenyan second president had passed on.
Here is how Kenyans reacted to saddening news:
#RIPMoi fare thee well President Moi. A great leader, you were not perfect but you left an indelible mark in the making and history of KENYA nation.
— Mohamed (@mejamaw) February 4, 2020
#RIPMoi fare thee well President Moi. A great leader, you were not perfect but you left an indelible mark in the making and history of KENYA nation.
— Mohamed (@mejamaw) February 4, 2020
#RIPMoi We all have to go this route. God Favoured you with good life and a long life,may you go where the Lord want your soul to be. RIP Mzee.
— ole bosco (@vientovrg) February 4, 2020
#RIPMoi
My heart Condolences to the family and friends that loved Daniel Toroitich Arap Moi Genuinely.KANU bado iko imara
— Daniel Toroitich Arap Moi (@Uhuru254) February 4, 2020
As a young boy we sung for Mzee Moi with full of energy and enthusiasm those days! I will remember you mzee for both good and bad, as you sleep you left me with one memory "siasa mbaya maisha mbaya"… #RIPMoi
— 𝗝𝗢𝗦𝗣𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗠𝗔𝗜𝗦𝗛 ♎️🎋 (@MrCabway) February 4, 2020
#RIPMoi My heartfelt condolences to the family of former president Mzee Moi. This is a sad day to this nation. Moi will be remembered for making this nation an item, stitched together under his leadership. #moi
— Oliver Bill (@OliverBill1) February 4, 2020
It is with profound sadness and deep sorrow that we have learnt of the passing of H.E. Daniel Arap Moi. In this hour of national grief, we at @NyaliCakeHouse wish to join in extending our sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the family of Mzee Moi, may his soul #RIPMoi pic.twitter.com/C8UmXMWxKX
— Nyali Cake House (@NyaliCakeHouse) February 4, 2020
I was very young when Kibaki became the third president of Kenya,but this man was feared by my village mates.He once visited and I actually thought a king who rules the whole world is coming to Gatundu.#RIPMoi pic.twitter.com/6SFVRaTQpe
— Erick Kamau (@gitu_kamau) February 4, 2020