Mau and land disputes dominate prayers for chopper crash victims

Family members of the late Emurua Dikirr MP Johanna Ngeno, Amos Kipngetich Rotich, Wycliffe Kiprotich Rono, Robert Kipkoech Keter and Nicholas Kosgei at Emurua Dikirr Primary School in Narok County during the requiem mass, on March 5, 2026. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard] 

Issues surrounding Mau settlements and land tussles in Ang'ata Barikoi dominated a joint requiem for Emurua Dikirr MP Johanna Ngeno and four others who died in a helicopter crash in Nandi County.

Leaders and locals eulogised Ng'eno as a vibrant leader who championed for land rights and resettlement of Mau Forest evictees. They noted that there were many ongoing court cases on the issue.

Legislators castigated leaders from Rift Valley who have been fuelling conflicts in Ang'ata Barikoi, a dispute ignited by community claims, historical land injustices and allegations of political interference, resulting in persistent violence and deaths.

Chepalungu MP Victor Koech also called on the government to settle the Mau issues.

"We do not want women and children suffering in camps again. We want the leaders to take up the issues that Ng'eno was handling. He always championed for decent living," he said.

Local musicians called on leaders to help them boost the industry by supporting and growing talents. Kesses MP Julius Ruto remembered Ng'eno for being an ardent supporter of local artistes. 

Former Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago hailed Ng'eno as a vibrant activist whose activism landed him several times in courts.

Family members of the late Emurua Dikirr MP Johanna Ngeno and five others who died in the helicopter crash during the requiem mass at Emurua Dikirr Primary School in Narok, on March 5, 2026. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

"He wanted people to live decently and he was unapologetic about it. That's who a true leader is," Mandago said.

Locals also echoed the issues, noting that Ng'eno was a vibrant leader who fearlessly fought for their representation.

Kesses MP Julius Ruto remembered Ng'eno for being an ardent supporter of local musicians, not only in Kenya but also in Uganda. He said his love for locally composed art knew no boundaries.

"He was a great supporter of local musicians and attended many events in their support. He used to cross the border to support artists in Uganda too," Ruto said.

"The music industry requires a lot of political support and there is need for other leaders to take up this role," Ruto added.

Residents overcome by grief during the requiem mass of the late Emurua Dikirr MP Johanna Ngeno and five others who died in the helicopter crash at Emurua Dikirr Primary School in Narok, on March 5, 2026. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]. 

Other leaders, including Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu eulogised Ng'eno as a hero who went out of his way to unite communities.

"He was a friend and a political pillar. We have lost a kingpin and a fearless leader," Governor Ole Ntutu said.

Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi called for unity and inclusion among the Kalenjin community. He said leaders should unite and bring the community together as a block.

"Ng'eno was not only a leader for Emurua Dikirr, but also led the entire community and supported artists from all over. We should emulate his leadership," Sudi said.