Leaders mourn fallen Nyamira Governor John Nyagarama

By Mourice Seretta

President Uhuru Kenyatta has mourned Nyamira Governor John Nyagarama, who passed away Friday morning while receiving treatment at a Nairobi hospital, 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 shall be dearly missed.

In a condolence message to the Governor’s family, the President eulogised Mr Nyagarama, 74, as a friendly, approachable, wise, witty and kind leader.

The President wished Governor Nyagarama’s family and the people of Nyamira County God’s comfort and fortitude as they come to terms with the County leader’s death.

Deputy President William Ruto on his part mourns Nyagarama as a selfless and formidable champion for devolution who was genuinely dedicated to public service.

Ruto further eulogizes Nyagarama as a progressive, steadfast and responsive leaders who was industrious, focussed and firm.

The Second in command also says that the fallen Nyamira Governor will be remembered as a leader who built a better, more inclusive and more transformed Nyamira.

He says his thoughts and prayers go to the Nyagarama family, their loved ones, the people of Nyamira and the Council of Governors during this time of sorrow.

ODM leader Raila Odinga says he is deeply saddened to learn of Governor John Nyagarama’s death.

He says his sympathies go to his family and the people of Nyamira as all mourn his death and reflect on his life.

Odinga says Nyagarama has been an extraordinary partner in strengthening devolution.

The ODM leader also says he will forever cherish moments with him on duty and as personal friends.

The Council of Governors also condoled with the Family, friends and the people of Nyamira County for the demise of H.E John Obiero Nyagarama.

In a statement, the council says the entire devolution family feels the pain and the great gap that H.E Nyagarama has left.

Other notable leaders who have mourned Nyagarama include but not limited to Council of Govornors Chair Wyucliffe Oparanya, Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho, Machakos Govornor Alfred Mutua and many more.

Oparanya says he was shocked to receive the sad news of the death of Nyamira County Governor His Excellency John Nyagarama which occured in Nairobi .

He mourned Nyagarama as a progressive, insightful, selfless and industrious Governor who was committed to transforming the livelihoods of the people of Nyamira County.

‘As a pioneer Governor of Nyamira, he initiated many development projects that have transformed the County.His death is a big blow not only to his family but also to the people of Nyamira and Kenyans at large who have lost a dedicated son and leader.’ Oparanya said.

‘On a personal level, I have lost a great friend and colleague whom we have worked together at the Council of Governors to ensure devolution works and the gains made by the County Governments are wholesomely defended. He was a person full of progressive ideas and advice that contributed towards a progressive Kenya.’ He added.

On his part, Mutua says it was so sad to learn of the passing of Gov. Nyangarama.

He mourned Nyagarama as a soft spoken, firm and great leader.

‘My condolences to his family and Gusii Nation. I treasure how he and his wife hosted me in his home and how he took me around Nyamira County. What a loss. Rest in Peace. Covid ni Mbaya Sana.’ Mutua said

Joho said it was a sad morning for the country as it mourns the tragic loss of the Governor of Nyamira County, H.E. John Nyagarama who had been hospitalized for the past three weeks.

He says Nyagarama was known to many as a gentleman and a person who always placed his people first, John will also be missed for his great wisdom and counsel.

‘On behalf of the people of Mombasa and my family I extend our sincere condolences and deepest sympathies to his family and the people of Nyamira County. May the Almighty assuage your grief. May his soul rest in eternal peace.’ Joho says.