Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and his PLP counterpart Martha Karua have arrived in Kitale for the annual memorial service for the late Vice-President Michael Kijana Wamalwa.
Kijana’s brother and DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa and local leaders received the two.
Other leaders attending the event are former Kitui governor Charity Ngilu, former minister Musikari Kombo
Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta is expected to attend the annual memorial service as the chief guest, where he will also launch a book documenting the life and legacy of the former vice-president.
Eugene said Uhuru had written the foreword to the book on his late brother and would formally launch it during the memorial service.
“It has taken a bit of time, 23 years, but the book is now complete, and he put the foreword on the book and we expect him to join us,” Eugene said.
He said the family had put in place elaborate plans for the annual commemoration and urged Kenyans to attend the service and celebrate Wamalwa’s contribution to the country.
“Plans are in top gear and everything is in place. We ask all Kenyans who have time to join for the service,” he said.
Eugene said the gathering would bring together political leaders from both sides of the Opposition, including those associated with the United Alternative Government and the Linda Mwananchi movement.
“We are also expecting Opposition leaders from both sides, the United Alternative Government and Linda Mwananchi leaders,” he said.
He added that the invitation list was not limited to Opposition politicians, saying government leaders who had close ties with the Wamalwa family and had worked with the late vice-president had also been invited.
“Not just leaders in Opposition. Even leaders in government who are friends to the family and were close to Kijana have been invited,” Eugene said.
The annual memorial service is held around August 23 each year to mark the anniversary of Wamalwa’s death. The former vice-president died on August 23, 2003, aged 59, while undergoing treatment in London.
The commemorations have traditionally included a prayer service, laying of wreaths at his mausoleum and reflections on his contribution to Kenya’s political history.
This year’s event comes at a time when political parties and leaders are increasingly positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
