Raila Odinga Attends Burial of Senator Montet's Husband Col. Gitahi in Machakos

Mourners gathered today to honor Colonel (Rtd) James Gitahi, a distinguished Kenyan aviator, at his funeral following his death in a road accident on March 7.

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Senate Speaker Amason Kingi were among the dignitaries present to pay their respects to Gitahi, whose career spanned military and commercial aviation. The somber event offered condolences to his widow, ODM-nominated Senator Betty Batuli Montet.
Colonel Gitahi, a seasoned military pilot, served as the pilot for former Presidents Daniel Arap Moi and Mwai Kibaki for nearly two decades.

His expertise ensured the safe transport of the nation's leaders, earning him widespread respect. Following his military service, Gitahi continued his aviation career as a commercial pilot at Wilson Airport. The fatal accident occurred at Kyumvi Junction on Mombasa Highway when Gitahi's vehicle collided head-on with an oncoming lorry, resulting in a fire.

Eyewitness reports indicate that Gitahi was attempting to overtake a lorry when the collision happened. Senator Montet was reportedly hospitalized for two days after receiving news of her husband’s death. During a requiem mass held on Friday at Sienna Catholic Church in Kitisuru, Nairobi, Senator Montet remembered her late husband as a responsible and supportive partner. Gitahi's legacy of service and dedication will be remembered by all who knew him.

"When this happened, I was so crushed that I was in the hospital for two days—it was because of who Jay was to me. Jay was a responsible man. We lived a simple life, but he was always there for me," she said.