By Roselyne Obala

Nairobi, Kenya: Leaders have expressed shock and disbelief in learning of the sudden demise of former Makueni Senator Mutula Kilonzo.

Among them Speaker of the Senate Ekwe Ethuro, National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi, Education Permanent Secretary Prof George Godia and Commission for the Implementation of the Constitution Charles Nyachae described the deceased as a true patriot and dedicated leader.

Ethuro admitted that Mutula was a great debater and constitutional lawyer. “He held many portfolios in Government, which he excelled in equal measure,” noted the Speaker.

Ethuro said Mutula was a long-serving legislator whose office was in the process of organising for a befitting sendoff. Mr Muturi described Mutula as a principled and focused man who stood by what he believed.

Perpetual smile

“He provided uninterrupted service to his people and all Kenyans for the last two decades during which all times he was warm, honest, humble, charming and jolly, wearing a perpetual smile,” he said.

Prof Godia stated that the entire Ministry of Education fraternity had learnt about his unexpected demise with profound shock.

He said it was unbelievable that a person whom they bade farewell barely three weeks ago as Education minister was no more.

“Senator Mutula’s stint at the Ministry of Education for the last one year has been one of the most transformative in the education sector,” he acknowledged. 

“He steered the development of policy and legislative framework on education that consolidated and firmed up the right of the child to free and compulsory education into the Basic Education Act 2013,” he added.

During Mutula’s helm at the Education Ministry, cases of examination cheating dropped drastically as evident during last year’s national examinations for primary and secondary schools.

Nyachae described Mutula as a statesman who diligently served as a legislator and Cabinet minister.

“The commission will remember Mutula for the role he played in enabling the country realise the dream of a new Constitution,” he stated.

Nyachae said as Minister for Justice, Mutula was instrumental in steering the effecting of the Constitution.