Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has announced that he will not be attending the burial service of the late Emurua Dikir Member of Parliament Johanna Ng’eno.
In a statement issued on Friday, March 6, 2026, Gachagua stated that his principles could not allow him to seat with leaders whom he claims humiliated the lawmaker when he was still alive.
Gachagua described the late Ng’eno as a “great friend, confidant and political soul mate”, adding that his death has robbed the country and the Kipsigis community a brave, courageous, focused, brilliant and selfless leader who gave his all for his for his people.
“It is painful to pen this tribute to a great leader of our time, my great friend, confidant and political soul mate, Hon. Ngeno,” Gachagua wrote on X.
“I would have wanted to come and bury you but my principles can’t allow me to sit with those who tormented and persecuted you in life as they pretend to love you in death,” he added.
The former Deputy President stated that the late legislator boldly championed the interests of his community and defended them against marginalization despite facing humiliation.
“I have seen your tormentors who hunted you like an antelope shedding crocodile tears and shamelessly pretending to mourn your death,” he said.
He further extended his condolences to Ng’eno’s family and community as they come to terms with the reality of his untimely departure.
The burial has been attended by President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetangula, Cabinet Secretaries, Senators, Members of Parliament among others.
Johanna Ng’eno, along with five others, died in a helicopter crash on Saturday, February 28, in Mosop, Nandi County. Preliminary investigations indicate that the chopper, registered 5Y-DSB, was flying at a very low altitude before hitting trees and crashing.
The crash claimed the lives of Kenya Forest Service ranger Amos Kipngetich Rotich, photographer Nick Kosgei, teacher Robert Kipkoech Keter, Narok County government Protocol Officer Wycliffe Kiprotich Rono, and Captain George Were.
