Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) leader Kalonzo Musyoka has mourned veteran journalist Kitavi Mutua, recalling their longstanding friendship and an unfinished autobiography they had been working on.
Mutua, a former Nation Media Group correspondent in Kitui county, died on Friday night while receiving treatment at Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH).
His death followed complications reportedly arising from a snakebite at his home in Kitui South, where he is said to have been bitten by a venomous snake while sleeping.
Preliminary reports indicate that the journalist spent about a week without seeking medical attention before his condition deteriorated, with the snake venom reportedly affecting his internal organs.
He was subsequently admitted to the hospital's Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where he died.
In a condolence message issued on Sunday, Kalonzo described Mutua as a distinguished journalist and a son of Ukambani whose work brought the region's affairs to national attention.
"I received with great sadness the news of the death of Kitavi Mutua, a veteran journalist and a son of Ukambani, who passed away on Friday night," he said.
The former Vice President said he had known Mutua for many years and valued his contribution to journalism, particularly his coverage of Kitui and the wider Ukambani region.
He noted that Mutua reported extensively on politics, healthcare, agriculture and environmental issues, helping audiences across the country understand developments in the region.
Kalonzo also disclosed that the journalist had played a significant role in mentoring young reporters and had been assisting him in writing his second autobiography.
"He was the one working with me on it. I am sorry that we will not finish that work together," Kalonzo said.
He conveyed his condolences to Mutua's family, former colleagues at Nation Media Group and everyone who knew him.
Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua also expressed grief over the journalist's death, describing him as a professional colleague, friend and accomplished media practitioner.
Wambua said the loss had affected him personally, noting that Mutua's wisdom and contribution to journalism would be deeply missed.
"Kitui has lost a son, the media has lost a scribe, and I have lost a friend whose wisdom I will dearly miss," he said.
"Go well, Kitavi. Your ink is dry, but your impact is indelible."
Former Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu and Kitui Woman Representative Irene Kasalu were among other leaders who joined the growing list of mourners.
Mutua was a long-serving correspondent for Nation Media Group, where he covered political, social and economic developments in Kitui County and the wider Ukambani region.
He left the media organisation about two years ago to venture into private business.
