Kenyans Honor Wafula Chebukati’s Legacy at His Funeral

Kenyans gathered to honor Wafula Chebukati, the former IEBC chair, at his funeral in Kiminini. Key speakers, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, praised his commitment to integrity and service. Attendees adhered to guidelines barring political expressions, focusing solely on Chebukati’s legacy. He is survived by his wife and three children, and the tributes reflected admiration across the political spectrum.

On Saturday, a significant number of Kenyans gathered to pay their respects during the funeral of former IEBC chair Wafula Wanyonyi Chebukati at his home in Kiminini Sub County. The ceremony was expected to evoke strong political sentiments, yet tributes from various speakers highlighted Chebukati’s integrity and commitment to his country, emphasizing his diligence and respect for the law.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi led the tributes, characterizing Chebukati as a dedicated public servant incapable of being compromised. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula noted Chebukati’s unwavering fidelity to the law, recognizing him as the first chair to oversee three presidential elections. Wetangula remarked on Chebukati’s ability to deliver credible elections amid immense pressure during the divided IEBC of 2022.

Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot praised Chebukati as a dedicated individual who stood for truth and set a benchmark in service that all should follow. Senator Amason Kingi described Chebukati as a legal role model, whose credibility and character were esteemed both nationally and continentally. Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya honored Chebukati as a diligent hero who was steadfast in his principles.

Mary Chebukati, the deceased’s wife and chairperson of the Commission on Revenue Allocation, painted a picture of a generous husband striving for familial well-being, while expressing concern about the adverse effects of social media following the contentious August 2022 elections. Chebukati’s parents, Wafula Chebukati Senior and Joyinah Wafula, remembered him as a hardworking and good-natured individual. Chebukati is survived by his wife and three children: Jonathan, Emmanuel, and Racheal.

Numerous legislators, including local and national representatives, attended the funeral alongside Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa and several permanent secretaries. The ceremony adhered strictly to guidelines issued by government officials, which prohibited political regalia and statements, emphasizing a focus on honoring Chebukati’s legacy rather than political agendas.

The funeral of Wafula Chebukati served as a platform for appreciation of his legacy as a devoted public servant. Attendees acknowledged his steadfast commitment to the law and his significant contributions to the electoral process in Kenya. The event highlighted the universal respect Chebukati garnered across political lines, reinforcing the impact of his service to the nation. His family and supporters continue to remember him as a reliable and dedicated leader.

Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke