Grief has engulfed the family of former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi following the death of his daughter, Anita Kendi Murungi, with top leaders joining Kenyans in expressing condolences and support to the bereaved family.
Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi led national leaders in mourning, describing Anita’s death as a painful and heartbreaking loss that has deeply affected the Murungi family and the wider public service fraternity.
Wandayi said he received the news of Anita’s passing with deep sorrow, noting that she was the daughter of a veteran public servant who has served the country in various senior capacities, including as Energy Minister, Senator, and former Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Oil Corporation of Kenya.
“I have received with deep sorrow the heartbreaking news of the passing of Anita Kendi Murungi, beloved daughter of Hon. Kiraitu Murungi, EGH, immediate former Chairman of the Board of Directors of National Oil Corporation of Kenya and former Minister of Energy, a former Senator and a veteran of the second liberation,” Wandayi said.
On behalf of the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, the CS extended condolences to the family, including Kiraitu Murungi and his wife Mama Priscilla Murungi, noting that the loss of a child is among the most devastating experiences any family can endure.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, I extend my sincere condolences to Hon. Kiraitu Murungi, Mama Priscilla Murungi, family and friends during this moment of profound grief,” he said.
“Losing a child is an immeasurable pain, and we pray that God grants the family strength, comfort and peace as they mourn Anita’s untimely passing. May her soul Rest in Eternal Peace.”
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also expressed his condolences, joining other leaders in mourning Anita Kendi, describing the loss as deeply sorrowful and a painful moment for the Murungi family.
Gachagua said he had received news of Anita’s death with deep sadness, noting her connection to Kiraitu Murungi, whom he described as a respected elder and former leader of Meru County.
“I have learnt of the passing of Anita Kendi Kiraitu, daughter of our respected elder and 2nd Governor of Meru County H.E. Kiraitu Murungi with deep sorrow,” Gachagua said.
He conveyed his and his wife Rev. Dorcas Rigathi’s message of sympathy, urging the family to remain strong during the difficult period of mourning.
“Mheshimiwa Kiraitu and your family, please accept deepest condolences from Rev. Dorcas Rigathi, and I during this difficult moment. We are truly sorry on the loss of your daughter,” he said.
Gachagua added that the family remains in their thoughts and prayers, asking God to grant them strength and comfort as they come to terms with the loss.
“We place you and your family in our prayers. May the Lord God give you strength and comfort. May the Almighty God rest the Soul of Anita Kendi in eternal peace,” he added.
The death of Anita Kendi Murungi has drawn widespread sympathy from across Kenya’s political divide, with leaders uniting in messages of comfort and support to the Murungi family during this period of mourning.