Plans are underway for the burial of Emurua Dikirr Member of Parliament Johana Ng’eno, who died in a helicopter crash in Mosop Constituency, Nandi County last weekend.
Ng’eno and five others were killed on February 28 when the aircraft they were traveling in reportedly attempted an emergency landing amid poor weather conditions before bursting into flames.
His family, together with local leaders, has confirmed a detailed programme of events ahead of the final send-off scheduled for Friday, March 6.
A requiem mass will be held on Wednesday, March 4, at Nairobi Baptist Church, offering friends, colleagues, and members of the public an opportunity to pay their respects in the capital. A night vigil in keeping with Kipsigis cultural rites is planned for Thursday, March 5.
The joint burial ceremony will take place on Friday, March 6, at Emurua Dikirr Primary School, where thousands of mourners are expected to gather. Thereafter, the bodies will be taken to their respective homesteads for individual interment later the same day.
Patrick Ole Ntutu, Governor of Narok County and Ng’eno’s father-in-law, said the arrangements reflect consultations between the families and community leaders and will honour both cultural traditions and the wishes of relatives.
National leaders have expressed deep sorrow over the legislator’s sudden passing. President William Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki paid tribute to Ng’eno, describing him as a committed and progressive leader who worked tirelessly to serve his constituents.
The National Assembly has also formed an ad hoc committee to coordinate farewell arrangements and support the bereaved families.
Ng’eno, who was serving his third term in Parliament, is remembered for his vocal advocacy on behalf of vulnerable communities and his active participation in legislative affairs.
As investigations into the crash continue, the country prepares to bid farewell to a lawmaker whose sudden death has sent shockwaves across the political landscape and beyond.
