Ruto: Ngeno’s death a deeply personal, painful loss

President William Ruto at the funeral ceremony of Emurua Dikirr Member of Parliament Johana Ngeno on March 6, 2026/PCS

President William Ruto has described the death of Emurua Dikirr Member of Parliament Johana Ngeno as a deeply personal and painful moment, paying tribute to the late legislator’s contributions to his community.

“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 MP Ngeno as a driving force behind the development of his constituency, noting that the area’s progress could not be fully told without acknowledging his leadership.

“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.”

He credited Ngeno for shaping Emurua Dikirr through his efforts and sacrifices. “With all his efforts, sacrifices and everything he did, we are proud that Ngeno was the MP for the area, and he was outstanding.”

The President also highlighted his personal connection to the area, which he said extended beyond politics.

“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,” Ruto said.

He pointed out that projects such as roads, technical schools, and the KMTC campus bear Ngeno’s influence.

“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 extended heartfelt condolences to the people of Emurua Dikirr, acknowledging the loss that comes with the passing of a leader of Ngeno’s stature.

“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, Mosop Constituency, Nandi County.

The lawmaker and his aides were on board the aircraft at the time of the crash.

The helicopter is reported to have attempted an emergency landing before bursting into flames. Emergency response teams remain at the scene as investigations begin.

On Wednesday, the nation’s political leadership, clergy, and grieving families gathered at Karen AGC to honour Ngeno and five others who perished in the February 28 helicopter crash.

The solemn service drew leaders from across the political divide, reflecting the breadth of Ngeno’s relationships and influence.

Speakers across party lines described him as bold yet warm, combative yet conciliatory, a man who fought fiercely for his people but never allowed politics to overshadow friendship.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki led the tributes, recalling a friendship forged across political differences and robust debate.

“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 many had underrated Ngeno’s intelligence and wit, describing him as “a solid professional and visionary leader” who skillfully balanced firmness with warmth.

“He was a very strong defender of his people, sometimes abrasive, but he balanced that with easy laughter when off duty, when he was not doing the rough politics of Emurua Dikirr and Narok County,” he noted.

The Deputy President also affirmed Ngeno’s loyalty to President William Ruto, recalling a public declaration in Kilgoris where the MP openly urged support for the Head of State.

“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. “He said it loudly and boldly.”

His voice heavy with emotion, Kindiki added: “I have lost a brother and a friend.”