Chairman of Kikuyu Council of Elders in Uasin Joseph Gatonye wa Kimani has died at a hospital in the town after a short illness.
Mzee Gatonye played a leading in peace and reconciliation in the region especially after the 2007/8 post election violence.
His family said he was aged 84 years and that he had checked into the hospital for routine treatment but his illness suddenly worsened leading to his death early today.
He is father to gospel singer and journalist Beatrice Gatonye and father in law to nominated MCA Maina Wachira.
Local leaders including nominated MCAs David Waiganjo and Huruma ward MCA Kimani Wanjohi.
Patron of the Elders Council Dr Mwangi Mwaniki and secretary to the council David Muchiri confirmed the death of mzee Gatonye.
“As the community of Uasin Gishu and this region we have lost an outstanding person in Mzee Gatonye who played a critical role in our region as an elder” , said Dr Mwaniki.
They said Mzee Gatonye has in the last three weeks complained of being unwell but went on with his usual business until today when he died at the Eldoret Hospital
He had served for three years as chairman of the Council after taking over from the late Kamunu wa Kabari.
Uasin Gishu govenor Jonathan Bii sent condolences to the family saying Mzee Gatonye had greatly helped to unite communities in the region.
“We have lost a wise elder who worked well with his colleagues from all communities to ensure peace and unity among our people” , said Bii.
Waiganjo said they would work with the family on burial arrangements.
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