By Stanley Mumo
In a solemn ceremony at the AGC Church in Karen, Members of Parliament and Senators joined national leaders to celebrate the lives of Johana Ng’eno, Emurua Dikirr MP, and five others who perished in the recent Nandi helicopter crash.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, who also chairs the Parliamentary Service Commission, led the tributes, commending the parliamentary team that organized funeral arrangements for the victims.
Alongside Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, several governors, and MPs, the leaders held a joint memorial service, honoring the fallen and their service to the nation.
“My previous engagements with Hon. Ngeno demonstrated the qualities of a firm leader who ensured that every decision he took benefited the people he represented,” Speaker Wetang’ula said. He described the late MP as “selfless, astute, and principled, a leader with a clean heart who served Kenya with zeal and determination.”
Speaker Wetang’ula also eulogized the late Pilot George Were, praising his diligence and professionalism. “Accidents do happen; it happened, and all we can do is celebrate their lives and pray that such tragedies never recur. May their souls rest in peace,” he added.
Recounting his own recent experience, Wetang’ula noted that he and his team had used the same aircraft just two weeks prior, highlighting the inherent risks of air travel, particularly in unstable weather.
He urged Kenyans to refrain from speculating about the crash and called on the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority to enhance safety measures for pilots and passengers, especially under adverse conditions.
“As we pray for the departed to find eternal rest, I urge Members to join the families for the final interment ceremony on Friday,” Speaker Wetang’ula concluded, emphasizing the importance of national solidarity in honoring those lost.
This joint memorial underscores the nation’s respect for public servants who dedicate their lives to serving communities, even in the face of unforeseen tragedies.
