CS Justin Muturi barred from reading Ruto's condolences during funeral [VIDEO]

Public Service and Human Capital Development Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi faced a challenging moment during the burial of Eric Kivuti, the son of former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti. 

The event, held on January 3, was marked by an unusual episode of crowd disapproval as the CS attempted to deliver President William Ruto's condolence message.

CS Muturi had just concluded his personal condolence remarks when he informed the crowd about the president's message. However, as he began reading it, murmurs and jeers from the attendees interrupted him.

"I have been given a message of condolence from President William Ruto," Muturi announced, only to be met with audible disquiet from the crowd.

In an attempt to manage the situation, the CS clarified, "I have given my message of condolence to Lenny Kivuti, mine. After that, I want to say that I have received a message of condolence from President William Ruto."

The jeers persisted, prompting Muturi to address the crowd directly. "Should I read it or not?" he asked, eliciting more murmurs.

Exercising restraint and humour, the former National Assembly Speaker referred to the late JJ Kamotho, a veteran politician known for invoking "kura ya makelele" (vote by acclamation), to gauge the mood of the audience.

"This message is to the family of Lenny Kivuti. I have the honour to deliver this message to Lenny Kivuti in public," Muturi stated, opting to conclude his remarks without reading the letter in full.

He then thanked the mourners for attending the ceremony and expressing their solidarity with the bereaved family.

Hostility in Mt Kenya

President Ruto has recently encountered notable challenges in the Mount Kenya region, a key political stronghold that significantly contributed to his electoral success.

Tensions have escalated following the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, a prominent figure from the area.

Allies of President Ruto from Mount Kenya have encountered hostility during public engagements.

Some Members of Parliament who supported the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have been heckled at public events, with constituents expressing their displeasure openly. This has led some politicians to avoid public gatherings or restrict interactions on social media to evade criticism.

In certain instances, residents have declined to listen to messages from the President or his representatives.

For example, during a funeral in Murang'a, attendees reportedly refused to hear speeches from Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and President Ruto, indicating a significant level of disapproval.