Matiang’i Delivers Uhuru’s Emotional Message and KSh500,000 Donation at Onyonka Mother’s Burial Amid Growing Opposition Unity Talks
Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i on Friday delivered an emotional condolence message and a KSh500,000 contribution from retired President Uhuru Kenyatta during the burial of Senator Richard Onyonka’s mother in Kisii County.
The burial of Mama Teresa Nyaboki Omoke turned into a high-profile political gathering, attracting senior opposition leaders and reigniting speculation over shifting political alliances ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during the funeral ceremony, Matiang’i said he had been personally sent by Uhuru to convey condolences, encouragement and support to the grieving family during what he described as a painful moment.
“I have been sent by former President Uhuru Kenyatta with a message of condolence and support to Senator Richard Onyonka and the entire family during this difficult moment,” Matiang’i told mourners.
In the message read by Matiang’i, Uhuru described the loss of a parent as one of the most painful experiences in life, saying Mama Teresa had lived a meaningful life dedicated to her family and community.
“It is with sadness that my family and I send this message of condolence, comfort, support and encouragement to you following the death of your beloved mother, Mama Teresa Nyaboki Omoke,” the message stated.
The former President praised the late matriarch for the values, wisdom and care she extended to those around her, saying her impact would remain deeply felt by generations of her family.
“We join you as you celebrate together with your families a life well lived and thank God for the treasured, precious gift of Mama Teresa. She loved and cared for her family dearly,” Uhuru said.
Uhuru also reflected on the pain of losing a parent, describing it as an emotional journey that leaves a lasting void within families.
“The journey of parting with beloved ones is very difficult, especially a parent who is a very important person. It is hard and extremely painful to part with her,” he added.
The retired Head of State further paid tribute to Senator Onyonka’s late father, Dr Zachary Onyonka, recalling his years of service in government alongside Kenya’s founding President Jomo Kenyatta.
According to Uhuru, the late Dr Onyonka served the country diligently between 1969 and 1996 in several government ministries.
“Your father served selflessly with diligence and commitment to the nation and people of Kenya together with my father, the late President Mzee Jomo Kenyatta,” the message read.
Uhuru expressed confidence that Senator Onyonka and his family would continue preserving the legacy of public service and integrity left behind by their parents.
During the ceremony, Matiang’i also handed over a KSh500,000 donation from Uhuru Kenyatta towards the funeral arrangements, drawing applause from mourners gathered at the burial.
The former President concluded his message by praying for strength, comfort and peace for the grieving family as they laid Mama Teresa to rest.
“As you pay your last respects and honour Mama Teresa Nyaboki Omoke, who God has now called home to rest, we pray that the love of God will console, comfort and strengthen you throughout this period and the days to come,” the message stated.
The funeral attracted several influential political figures from across the divide, including Kalonzo Musyoka, Edwin Sifuna and Babu Owino, in a show of solidarity that also sparked fresh political speculation over emerging opposition cooperation.
Also Read: Gachagua Flees to UK but Rushes Back as Kenya Boils Over Fuel Crisis