Government Forms Team to Make Preparations for Kenneth Matiba's Funeral

The government has formed a committee to make preparations for the burial of second liberation icon Kenneth Stanley Njindo Matiba, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 85.

Matiba passed away while receiving treatment at the Karen Hospital at around 6.10pm Sunday after battling illness for several years.

In a statement dispatched to the media on Monday, Government Spokesman Eric Kiraithe said the committee will be chaired by the Head of Public Service, Joseph Kinyua and will also comprise of members of Matiba’s family.

“The government has since constituted a committee made up of the late Matiba’s family and government officials to assist in preparations for the official funeral,” said Kiraithe.

Kiraithe said the team will closely work with the family of the late Matiba to ensure he is given a befitting send-off.

President Kenyatta, who is said to have been following Matiba’s health condition closely, was among the first leaders to arrive at the hospital hours after he was pronounced dead.

Being a senior political figure in the country and a former Cabinet Minister, Matiba’s death was officially announced by the President, who sent his condolence message to the family of the deceased in a televised address on Sunday night.

President Kenyatta described the multiparty democracy hero as a true patriot and a nationalist. "Mzee Matiba was a true patriot who loved this nation of Kenya, a nationalist who believed in hard work and building strong bonds of friendship for the betterment of all."

"Mzee Matiba was among the first sons of Kenya who formed the team that began to lay the foundation of our great Nation."

“With the passing of Mzee Matiba, the cruel hand of death has robbed us of a devoted leader and mentor who was a role model to many. Indeed, he served the country with distinction. His accomplishments clearly demonstrate that focus, diligence, and determination pay. Those who knew him benefited immensely from his selfless leadership and wisdom,” President Kenyatta said in a televised statement.