Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has issued a formal apology to the family of the late Ol Kalou Member of Parliament, David Kiaraho, following a wave of political grandstanding that marred the legislator’s initial funeral service last Wednesday.
Speaking on Friday during a burial ceremony in Tigoni, Kiambu County, the Deputy President expressed deep regret over the “disrespectful” behavior exhibited by a section of the political class. The apology follows a week of public outcry regarding the conduct of certain leaders who used the solemn occasion in Ol Kalou to settle political scores.
Prof. Kindiki emphasized that the chaotic scenes and inflammatory utterances witnessed in Ol Kalou were a direct contradiction to the character of the late Mr. Kiaraho, whom he described as a disciplined, peaceful, and honorable servant of the people.
“I apologize on behalf of the political leaders who, through their utterances, actions, and behaviors, brought disrepute to the sending-off ceremony of Hon. Kiaraho,” the Deputy President stated. “On their behalf, I apologize for anything that was done that might have hurt the family, his friends, and the people of Ol Kalou.”
The Deputy President noted that lowering the dignity of a man who worked tirelessly for unity was a disservice to his legacy.
Addressing the broader community, Kindiki reminded leaders that the recent behavior was a departure from the cultural norms of the Mt. Kenya region and the nation at large. He stressed that funerals are sacred spaces for mourning and reflection, not arenas for political theater.
Key Highlights of the DP’s Address included Cultural Integrity where he reminded leaders that the Kikuyu, Embu, and Meru cultures place a high premium on respecting the dead. Leadership Etiquette, he urged politicians to remain mindful of the emotional state of bereaved families when granted a platform to speak and National Standard where he expressed hope that the “unfortunate events” in Ol Kalou would serve as a lesson for politicians across the entire country.
The Deputy President’s remarks are seen as an attempt to de-escalate rising political tensions within the region and set a new tone for public engagements.
“It is not within our nature to misbehave during private events or solemn occasions,” Kindiki added. “I hope what happened in Ol Kalou will not be repeated anywhere else in the country.”
The late Hon. David Kiaraho was remembered by those in attendance as a steadfast leader whose commitment to his constituency remained his primary focus until his passing.
