Jubilee deputy party leader Fred Matiang'i, on Friday, delivered a condolence message and a Sh500,000 contribution from retired President Uhuru Kenyatta to Senator Richard Onyonka during the burial of his mother, Mama Teresa Nyaboki Omoke, in Kisii County.
Matiang’i, who was speaking during the ceremony, said he had been sent personally by the retired President to convey condolences, comfort and support to the Onyonka family.
“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 a detailed condolence message, Uhuru described the death of a parent as one of life’s most painful experiences.
“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 read.
Uhuru said losing a parent was an extremely painful experience, noting that Mama Teresa had lived a full and impactful life devoted to her family and community.
“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,” the former President said in the message.
“We join you as you celebrate together with your families a life well lived and thank God for the treasured, precious gift of Mama Teresia. She loved and cared for her family dearly.”
Uhuru further praised the late Mama Teresa for the wisdom and values she instilled in her children and everyone she interacted with throughout her life.
“You will forever appreciate the opportunity and privilege to have known her and shared in her wisdom, which impacted you and everyone she interacted with during her long life,” the message stated.
The former President also 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.
“Your father, the late Dr Zakary Onyonka, served selflessly with diligence and commitment to the nation and people of Kenya, together with my father, the late President Mzee Jomo Kenyatta,” Uhuru said.
“He served tirelessly with integrity for many years, from 1969 to 1996, in various ministries and performed exceptionally.”
Uhuru expressed confidence that Senator Onyonka and his family would continue to uphold the values and legacy left behind by their parents.
“I trust that you and your family members will emulate his relentless service and legacy and follow in his footsteps of faithful service to promote and empower this generation to realise its destiny in our beloved country,” the message added.
Matiang’i also handed over the Sh500,000 donation from Uhuru to support the funeral arrangements, drawing applause from mourners.
Uhuru also prayed for strength and comfort for the grieving family.
“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 read.
“It may be difficult, but the Lord’s comfort will be with you. May the Almighty God rest her soul in eternal peace.”
The burial ceremony attracted several senior political leaders from across the political divide, including Wiper's Kalonzo Musyoka, Edwin Sifuna and Babu Owino.
