‘Heavy heart’: Kalonzo Musyoka bids brother Kelvin farewell

Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka during the burial of Kelvin Mwendwa/X

Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka on Saturday led family, friends, and political leaders in paying tribute to his brother, Kelvin Mwendwa Musyoka, during an emotional farewell ceremony.

Speaking with grief, Kalonzo described the loss as deeply personal. “Today, I stand before you with a heavy heart as we bid farewell to my beloved brother, Kelvin Mwendwa Musyoka, fondly known to many as Meja,” he said.

Kalonzo remembered his brother as a man whose character left a lasting impression on those around him.

“Kelvin was a man of humility and quiet strength and related to people with sincerity and warmth. He valued family, respected others and carried himself with dignity. He did not seek attention, yet his presence was deeply felt. His kindness and loyalty defined him,” he said.

Several leaders attended the ceremony in a show of solidarity with the Musyoka family. Kalonzo acknowledged their presence, saying it offered comfort during a difficult time.

“I am grateful to stand here alongside Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr., Kitui County Woman Representative Irene Kasalu, Kitui Central Member of Parliament Makali Mulu, Mwingi North Member of Parliament Paul Nzengu, Advocate Ndegwa Njiru, Apostle Musili and many other leaders who have come to stand with our family. Your presence is a source of strength and comfort to us,” he said.

In his remarks, Kalonzo also offered a heartfelt message to Kelvin’s immediate family, recognising the pain of the loss.

“My heart goes out in a very special way to Kelvin’s dear wife, Mary Mwendwa, and his beloved son, Fabian Mwendwa. Mary, you have lost a husband and a partner. Fabian, you have lost a father and a guide. The void left behind is immeasurable. But as a family, we stand with you. We will walk with you, support you and ensure that Kelvin’s love and legacy continue to surround you,” he said.

Kalonzo reflected on the sorrow of losing someone whose life felt unfinished. He spoke of grief, faith, and gratitude.

“It is especially painful to lose someone whose journey still felt unfinished. We mourn not only the man Kelvin was, but also the future we had envisioned for him. Yet even in our sorrow, we thank God for the gift of his life. We thank Him for the years we shared, for the lessons he taught us and for the love he gave so freely,” he said.

He urged those present to find strength in faith as the family mourned.

“As we lay my brother to rest, we place our trust in God, knowing that He is the giver and sustainer of life. May He grant us strength, comfort and peace in this season of grief,” Kalonzo said.

In his closing tribute, Kalonzo bid farewell to his brother.

“To my dear brother Meja, thank you for the memories, the laughter and the unwavering bond we shared. You will forever remain in our hearts. Rest well, my brother. Until we meet again.”