A tense atmosphere gripped the funeral service of late nominated MCA Mark Gicheru Wainaina in Murang’a on Saturday, as mourners openly rejected Deputy President Kithure Kindiki’s condolence message.
The drama unfolded when Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata invited a representative to deliver Kindiki’s message.
However, the crowd’s disapproval was swift, with loud boos drowning out the speaker before he could finish the first sentence.
Despite the representative’s attempts to calm the crowd, the discontent was palpable.
“This is to the family of our departed colleague. To the great people of Murang’a. Let us listen,” he said, but his pleas fell on deaf ears.
The clergy, seeking to restore order, intervened and instructed that the message be delivered privately to the family to maintain decorum.
Sensing the hostile mood, Governor Kang’ata quickly adjusted his approach, handing over President William Ruto’s condolence message to the family without reading it aloud.
Adding to the tension, senior economic advisor Moses Kuria faced his own backlash during the service.
Kuria attempted to delve into political matters during his address, prompting visible frustration among mourners. In a dramatic turn, the presiding priest led the congregation in a hymn, cutting off Kuria mid-speech.
The incident underscored rising public discontent with political rhetoric at solemn events, as mourners appeared keen to focus on honouring the late MCA rather than engaging in political discourse.
The late Mark Gicheru Wainaina was remembered for his service to Murang’a County, with calls for unity and peace dominating the day despite the disruptions.
