Mzee Moi Death: DP Ruto Praises Late President for Retiring When His Term Expired

Deputy President William Ruto described former President Daniel Arap Moi as a God-fearing leader who sacrificed his life to serve the country.

Addressing the media at his office on Tuesday morning, DP Ruto sent his message of condolence to the family of Moi, who passed away at the Nairobi Hospital early Tuesday morning.

Ruto remembered how Moi picked him and mentored him into politics even as he praised him for retiring from active politics when his term in office expired. 

“The late Mzee Moi submitted himself to the presidential term limit thereby retiring when his time was up. This is an undeniable legacy of success against daunting odds,” DP Ruto said.

“As a teacher evangelist who tossed himself into politics, Mzee Moi excelled. His genuine concerns, loyalty and sincerity allowed him to attain power and attract massive support.”

“Just as Moi did, we must as a country strive to excel. He taught and mentored many, his determination showed that nothing is impossible and that Kenya can be a better place,” Ruto said.

At the same time, Ruto announced that President Kenyatta directed the Head of Public Service Joseph Kinyua to take over all the burial arrangements for the late president. He added that the government will be issuing further communication on the burial date in due time.

While announcing the death of Moi on Tuesday, President Kenyatta declared a state of National Mourning until Kenya’s second President is laid to rest.

Moi ruled Kenya for 24 years from 1978 to 2002 when he handed over to retired president Mwai Kibaki. Moi took over power following the death of Kenya’s founding President Mzee Jomo Kenyatta.