President William Ruto has mourned the death of Dr David Silverstein, the longtime personal physician to late retired President Daniel arap Moi.
Baringo Senator Gideon Moi announced the death of Dr Silverstein on Sunday.
In a condolence message, Ruto extended his sympathies to Silverstein’s family, friends and the medical fraternity, describing the late doctor as a distinguished medical practitioner whose service had a lasting impact on Kenya.
Ruto said Silverstein made pioneering contributions to the advancement of medicine, particularly in cardiology, touching the lives of many people and helping shape the practice of modern medicine in Kenya.
“Dr Silverstein leaves behind a distinguished legacy of service to our nation,” Ruto said.
The President expressed his condolences to Silverstein’s family and loved ones, saying they should draw strength from his life and enduring contribution to the country.
Silverstein was known for his long service as Moi’s personal physician and was among the prominent doctors associated with the former President’s medical care.
Silverstein was best known for his long association with retired President Daniel arap Moi.
He first treated Moi in 1977, when Moi was Vice President, and remained his personal physician for 42 years, until Moi's death in February 2020.
Silverstein said their relationship developed beyond that of doctor and patient into a close friendship.
During Moi’s presidency, Silverstein regularly attended to him and was involved in his medical care at State House.
Gideon mourned Silverstein as a dedicated doctor whose care and friendship remained deeply valued by the Moi family.
In a statement, Gideon said Silverstein left a lasting impression on those he treated, praising his attention to detail and empathy.
“Dr Silverstein left a lasting impression on those he treated, and we witnessed firsthand his attention to detail and empathy,” Gideon said.
He said Silverstein viewed his responsibility to Mzee Moi as more than a doctor-patient relationship, taking time to listen, understand and care for the former president.
“To him, Mzee Moi was not merely a client. He was a human being whose health, dignity and wellbeing mattered deeply to him,” he said.
Gideon described Silverstein as a doctor who extended the same humanity and compassion to everyone under his care.
