Ruto set to attend Jonathan Moi’s funeral service in Kabarak
The burial of the late Jonathan Toroitich Moi at Kabarak University on Saturday promises to bring together Deputy President William Ruto and his political nemesis and Baringo Senator Gideon Moi for the first time in a long while.
Mr Nick Salat, a close ally of the Senator said on Friday that they had the confirmation of the DP that he would be attending the interment of the former Safari Rally driver.
Mr Toroitich, who is retired President Daniel Moi’s eldest son, succumbed to cancer on April 20 while receiving treatment at a Nakuru hospital and will be buried Saturday in an event set to attract top politicians.
UHURU, RAILA ABSENT
President Uhuru Kenyatta and opposition Chief Raila Odinga, who are in China, will not be in attendance.
Kabarak University vice chancellor Prof Henry Kiplagat, who is the chair of the burial committee, in his press briefing on Friday at the deceased’s home at Kabimoi in Eldama Ravine said the burial will only be attended by close friends and family members.
He said Mr Toroitich will be buried at his rural home in Kabimoi, Eldama Ravine in Baringo County later after the service. Prof Kiplagat noted that the distance from the university to the burial site is quite far and, therefore, not all guests need to feel obligated to attend.
“The main burial service will be held at Kabarak University. All mourners are invited to attend but they should feel free to go back home after the service as we do not expect everyone to travel to Kabimoi in Eldama Ravine for the interment,” said Prof Kiplagat.
MANY GUESTS
Prof Kiplagat said the service will begin at around 10am and many guests are expected because Mr Toroitich had many friends.
Mr Toroitich, who was popularly known as JT, was a celebrated rally driver. He left behind his widow Sylvia Toritich and four children. His two sons, Clint Moi and Wayne Kiprop Moi, who are also part of the funeral committee, thanked everyone who condoled with and supported the family.
“It has been difficult for us after we lost our father but we appreciate the immense support that we have received so far from friends, neighbours and leaders,” said Clint Moi.
At his Kabimoi home, preparations were progressing as mourners continued trooping in to condole with the family
Those who turned up Friday included controversial businessman Jackson Kibor.
A delegation from the Council of Governors led by their chairman and Kakamega governor Wycliffe Oparanya was also expected to visit on Friday evening.