Deputy President Kithure Kindiki on Friday issued a rare and emotional apology on behalf of the country’s political leadership, acknowledging that recent remarks may have hurt the family of the late Ol Kalou MP David Kiaraho and his constituents.
Speaking in Tigoni, Limuru, during the burial of the legislator, Kindiki admitted that leaders sometimes fall short in moments that demand empathy.
“I want to apologise on behalf of the political leadership of our country, for anything any of us might have said or done that hurt the family of David Kiaraho and the people of Ol Kalou,” he said.
The burial, held at Kiaraho’s Island Farm in Tigoni, drew leaders from across the political divide, family, friends and residents, turning into a sombre moment of reflection not just on the life of the late MP, but also the tone of political discourse in the country.
Kindiki, who described Kiaraho as a close friend and dedicated leader, said it was painful to witness his final send-off, noting that the country had lost a committed servant of the people.
He cautioned politicians against using moments of grief to score points, warning that careless statements only deepen pain for bereaved families.
“Politics should never make an already painful situation worse,” Kindiki said, urging leaders to show restraint and basic respect when addressing the public.
The DP also called for a shift in tone across the political space, saying the country needs humility and unity now more than ever.
His remarks come at a time when political rhetoric has come under scrutiny, with growing criticism over how leaders handle sensitive moments, especially deaths involving public figures.
Kindiki assured the family of the late MP that the government stands with them, and recognised Kiaraho’s contribution to his constituency, describing him as a leader who served with dedication.
The apology appeared to resonate with mourners, with some leaders backing calls for a more respectful and less confrontational approach in public discourse.
As the country continues to mourn, attention is now shifting to whether political leaders will tone down their rhetoric and embrace a more humane approach, especially in moments of loss.