EMBU, Kenya – Public Service CS Justin Muturi faced an unexpected backlash while attempting to deliver President William Ruto’s condolence message during the burial of Eric Kivuti, son of former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti.
The Friday service, held in Embu County, saw mourners loudly opposing Muturi’s efforts to read the President’s message, forcing him to pause and seek guidance on how to proceed.
Muturi began addressing the mourners by acknowledging his task to convey the President’s message.
However, his words were quickly drowned out by boos and chants of “Usisome!” (Don’t read!). Attempting to calm the crowd, Muturi asked for advice from the presiding bishop before ultimately deciding to deliver the message directly to the bereaved family.
“I have been advised wisely… I have the honor to deliver this message to Hon. Lenny Kivuti in public,” Muturi said, drawing from his experience as a former Speaker to navigate the tense moment.
This incident mirrors a growing trend where mourners disrupt attempts to deliver official condolence messages from President Ruto or his administration.
In November 2024, a similar scenario unfolded at the burial of nominated MCA Mark Gicheru Wainaina.
During that service, Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata and Kirinyaga Senator James Murango were tasked with reading messages from Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.
However, mourners vehemently rejected the speeches, prompting church officials to intervene and redirect the messages privately to the bereaved family.
These incidents highlight a disconnect between government representatives and sections of the public, particularly during sensitive moments like funerals.
Eric Kivuti, who passed away at MP Shah Hospital after a brief illness, was remembered as a beloved son and family member.
The Friday service, held in Embu County, saw mourners loudly opposing Muturi’s efforts to read the President’s message, forcing him to pause and seek guidance on how to proceed.
Muturi began addressing the mourners by acknowledging his task to convey the President’s message.
However, his words were quickly drowned out by boos and chants of “Usisome!” (Don’t read!). Attempting to calm the crowd, Muturi asked for advice from the presiding bishop before ultimately deciding to deliver the message directly to the bereaved family.
“I have been advised wisely… I have the honor to deliver this message to Hon. Lenny Kivuti in public,” Muturi said, drawing from his experience as a former Speaker to navigate the tense moment.
This incident mirrors a growing trend where mourners disrupt attempts to deliver official condolence messages from President Ruto or his administration.
In November 2024, a similar scenario unfolded at the burial of nominated MCA Mark Gicheru Wainaina.
During that service, Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata and Kirinyaga Senator James Murango were tasked with reading messages from Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.
However, mourners vehemently rejected the speeches, prompting church officials to intervene and redirect the messages privately to the bereaved family.
These incidents highlight a disconnect between government representatives and sections of the public, particularly during sensitive moments like funerals.
Eric Kivuti, who passed away at MP Shah Hospital after a brief illness, was remembered as a beloved son and family member.
