Leaders eulogise hawkish Joseph Kamotho as a steadfast and shrewd Kanu adherent

Joseph Kamotho kneels before former President Daniel Moi during a political rally in 1999. (Photo:File/Standard)

President Uhuru Kenyatta has sent his message of condolences to the family, relatives and friends of former Cabinet Minister John Joseph Kamotho, who died on Friday in South Africa. The President said he is deeply saddened by the death of a man he described as a “selfless political legend”. He described him as an amiable and extremely pleasant person.

For more than five decades, said the President, Kamotho gave exemplary service to the people of Kenya both as a civil servant and a politician. He was a true believer in our national values, and his energy, commitment and loyalty were beyond doubt. His rich legacy will live on.

“It was because of his outstanding leadership that former President Moi appointed him the Higher Education Minister in 1979. Later, he was appointed Minister for Transport, Education, Trade, Environment and Local Government,” said Uhuru.

Kamotho was also one of the longest serving secretary generals of Kanu, having occupied the post from 1989 to 2002. President Kenyatta said Kamotho was instrumental in building Kanu into a formidable party that united Kenyans.

Kamotho started his political career in 1974 when he was elected Kangema MP. In 1997, the constituency was split and Kamotho elected Mathioya MP in 2002.

Former President Daniel Arap Moi said he had learnt of the death with deep sorrow and a profound sense of loss. “Besides politics, Kamotho was a personal friend for many years. In politics he was an energetic, thoughtful and an indefatigable public servant and a man who contributed immensely in making Kanu a robust system in the service of the people,” he said.

The former president noted that Kamotho was dedicated in serving Kenyans in the Civil Service, as MP for Kangema and Mathioya and as a Cabinet Minister in various ministries. Moi prayed to God to give the bereaved family necessary fortitude to bear the loss.

“The country has lost a man who gave his all while serving Kenyans in different capacities. I pray that God give his family necessary fortitude to bear the loss,” said Moi.

Deputy President William Ruto also condoled with the family and said he was saddened by the passing of Kamotho, a patriot, friend, brother and colleague.

“I saw him three weeks ago in hospital in South Africa and it was my fervent hope then that he would recover and return home,” said Ruto.

He said Kamotho’s legend in Kenya’s politics speaks for itself because he was perhaps the most unforgettable political party administrator. “I was to serve in the same seat he once held and I doubt I even came close to matching him in stamina and energy."

Ruto applauded his years of public service as a legislator, and Cabinet minister and recounted how he was a passionate, indefatigable and forthright operator.

“To the family, friends, supporters, and the people of Murang’a I send you my heartfelt condolences and I assure you of the prayers of my family and myself. May the Lord keep you strong and rest JJ in eternal peace.” said Ruto

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga who wished the family well, said: “I wish to convey heartfelt sympathies to the family of Hon Joseph J Kamotho following his demise. The late minister was a brave, strong and principled leader who spoke his mind and never shied from taking a stand on critical issues.”