PHOTO | DANIEL IRUNGU A group of Mau Mau veterans go past dignitaries and other Kenyans during the celebrations at the Nyayo National Stadium on October 20, 2012. NATION MEDIA GROUP
By PETER NG’ETICH pngetich@ke.nationmedia.com AND PHILEMON SUTER psuter@ke.nationmedia.com
Posted Saturday, October 20 2012 at 23:30
Posted Saturday, October 20 2012 at 23:30
IN SUMMARY
- The President said from the days of Lancaster Conference through the struggle for multi-party democracy, the late Shikuku’s contribution had impacted positively on the lives of Kenyans
- He also paid tribute to former Environment minister John Michuki, Prof George Saitoti, Orwa Ojode, Geoffrey Kareithi and David Nalo
- Some former athletes who had brought glory to the country like Billy Konchela, Ben Jipcho, Douglas Wakiihuri and Rose Tata Muya among others were branded heroes and heroines and marched past the dignitaries
President Kibaki on Saturday regretted the loss of eminent post-independence leaders who had brought great changes to the country.
He said the death of seasoned politician Martin Shikuku who was at the forefront of fighting for the rights of Kenyans during the second liberation had cost the country a lot.
The President said from the days of Lancaster Conference through the struggle for multi-party democracy, the late Shikuku’s contribution had impacted positively on the lives of Kenyans.
He also regretted the loss of former Defence minister Njenga Karume whom he described as a businessman and political leader who modelled the example of starting life from scratch and working hard to achieve success.
He also paid tribute to former Environment minister John Michuki, Prof George Saitoti, Orwa Ojode, Geoffrey Kareithi and David Nalo whom he said were committed public servants who carried out their duties without fear or favour.
Haven of peace
“Kenyans should honour them by redoubling efforts in making Kenya a working and caring nation and a haven of peace, unity and prosperity,” he said.
He also honoured freedom fighters led by the late president Jomo Kenyatta.
Some former athletes who had brought glory to the country like Billy Konchela, Ben Jipcho, Douglas Wakiihuri and Rose Tata Muya among others were branded heroes and heroines and marched past the dignitaries including Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka.
They were feted on Friday evening and then driven to State House in National Youth Service buses for a feast.
In Elgeyo/Marakwet County, several current and former athletes’ were honoured on Saturday also as heroes and heroines in an outstanding ceremony as the country marked Mashujaa Day.
The champions comprising those who participated in the recent London Olympics were rewarded with cows and cash for their sterling performance in a ceremony organised by the Office of the President, local politicians and corporate bodies.
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