Long-serving career civil servant Simon Nyachae was laid to rest today, with leaders calling for Kenyans to take up his outstanding statesman. – By Gerald Gekara.
The funeral service was graced with leaders from across the political divide in Gusii Stadium.
President Uhuru Kenyatta on his side, eulogized Nyachae’s humility and dedications to service.
“Without a doubt, he (Nyachae) was a disciplinarian not only disciplining others but the discipline with which he carried himself. We thank Nyachae and we cannot forget him for all he has done for us as a country. As he held my hand, I am ready to hold another hand to continue on this journey. “
In honour of Mzee Nyachae, the President announced, the re-naming of Gusii Stadium to Simeon Nyachae Stadium and a 150 million National Government grant to the County Government of Kisii for the completion of the ongoing redevelopment of sporting facility.
Opposition leader and former ally to Nyachae, Raila Odinga said Kenya was proud of Nyachae’s achievements.
“Nyachae was schooled in the tradition of British civil service, which promotes excellence and correctness in service of the people.” He said
Raila said Nyachae’s contribution to the expansion of the country’s democratic space included forming his own party, Ford People, and joined Raila and others in the backbench.
Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka said Mzee Nyachae did a lot to promote devolution, with his strategy for rural development.
On his part, ANC leader Musalia Mudavadi expressed his admiration of Nyachae’s humility.
“Nyachae never proclaimed himself as the Chief Secretary, you just felt it. Kuna watu wengine katika Kenya hii they must remind you ‘mimi ni waziri…mimi ni gavana…mimi ni nani’” He said
KANU chairman Gideon Moi eulogized Nyachae as a man of great character, loyal, intelligent, determined and who was not a proceed of corruption.
“If you have to learn something from Mzee, it’s that to reach the pinnacle of your career, in personal and business, you do not have to steal…you do not have to cut shortcuts” The KANU leader said.
Deputy President William Ruto said Nyachae was living testimony that a humble leader is ripe for Kenya’s leadership, citing his decision to forego his fathers riches.
“With a humble posho mill and a small bakery he built a huge business empire that not only created opportunity, it created wealth and jobs. That is the lesson that mzee gives to us as the people of Kenya.”
