William Ruto has described the death of Johana Ngeno as a deeply personal and painful moment, paying tribute to the late legislator’s leadership and service to his constituents.
Speaking while honouring the late lawmaker, the President said he received news of the accident from Douglas Kanja as well as military officials, who informed him that the Emurua Dikirr MP was among those involved in the tragic incident.
“I received the news of the accident from the Inspector General of Police, and then the military, and I was informed that MP Ngeno was among those involved,” Ruto said.
“They told me where he was and about his final journey. It was not an ordinary moment because Ngeno was a special leader.”
Ruto described the late legislator as a key figure behind the development of Emurua Dikirr, saying the region’s progress could not be fully told without recognising his contribution.
“The constituency of Emurua Dikirr is the way it is because of MP Ngeno,” the President said.
“The history of this area cannot be fully told without Ngeno.”
The President credited the MP for shaping the constituency through his efforts and sacrifices, saying the people of the area had much to be proud of.
“With all his efforts, sacrifices and everything he did, we are proud that Ngeno was the MP for the area, and he was outstanding,” he added.
Ruto also highlighted his personal connection to the region, saying he had visited the area several times for development and community engagements.
“I am not a visitor here; I have been here several times to hold meetings with the church, in development, and in many other areas,” he said.
He noted that several development projects in the constituency, including roads, technical training institutions and a campus of the Kenya Medical Training College, bear the influence of the late MP.
“The history of this area, even the road, technical schools and the KMTC campus, all have the mark of the MP. They have his signature,” Ruto said.
The President extended condolences to residents of Emurua Dikirr, acknowledging the deep loss felt by the community following the death of their elected leader.
“Today I extend my condolences for the people of this area for losing a leader like Ngeno,” he said. “MP Ngeno deserves recognition for his service.”
Ngeno was among six people who died after a helicopter crashed in Chepkiep area in Mosop Constituency, Nandi County. Reports indicate the aircraft attempted an emergency landing before bursting into flames.
The lawmaker and his aides were on board the helicopter at the time of the crash. Emergency response teams responded to the scene as investigations into the cause of the accident began.
On Wednesday, the nation’s political leadership, clergy and grieving families gathered at Karen Africa Gospel Church to honour Ngeno and five others who perished in the February 28 helicopter crash.
The solemn memorial service brought together leaders from across the political divide, reflecting the wide influence and relationships the MP built during his time in public service.
Among those who paid tribute was Kithure Kindiki, who described Ngeno as both a strong political competitor and a close friend.
“I knew Ngeno quite a lot. We did not agree on many things, but he was a very, very good friend of mine,” Kindiki said.
“We agreed on all the ideas and visions he had for the people of Emurua Dikirr; we only differed on the methodology.”
Kindiki said the late MP was often underestimated but possessed remarkable intelligence and leadership qualities.
“He was a solid professional and visionary leader,” he said, noting that Ngeno balanced firm political advocacy with a warm personality outside the political arena.
The Deputy President also recalled a moment in Kilgoris where Ngeno publicly declared his support for President Ruto.
“If anyone doubted that the late Ngeno was a friend and supporter of the President, let that doubt be removed today with the witness statement I am providing,” Kindiki said.
His voice heavy with emotion, the Deputy President concluded his tribute by saying: “I have lost a brother and a friend.”
