EDWIN SIFUNA, RIGATHI GACHAGUA AMONG LEADERS ATTENDING MAMA ANNAH NDUNG’U’S FINAL SEND-OFF.

By Miraj Guo | May 14, 2026
NYERI, Kenya — Leaders from across Kenya’s political divide on Thursday converged at Mwiyogo Senior School in Kieni Constituency, Nyeri County, for the burial of Mama Annah Ndung’u, the mother of East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Kanini Kega.
The funeral ceremony attracted a high-profile delegation from the Linda Mwananchi political faction led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi. The leaders arrived aboard a helicopter at the school grounds before taking time to interact with students and teachers ahead of the burial service.
Political strategist Pauline Njoroge was also part of the delegation that joined mourners in paying their final respects to the late Mama Annah Ndung’u, who passed away on May 8, 2026, after a short illness.
The burial ceremony drew hundreds of mourners from Nyeri County and beyond, with local residents lining up near the venue to witness the arrival of national leaders. Security was heightened around the school compound as political leaders, clergy, family members, and residents gathered for the emotional send-off.
Among the notable leaders present were former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Senator Richard Onyonka, former Nyeri Town MP Ngunjiri Wambugu, and several Members of County Assembly and Members of Parliament from the Mt Kenya region.
Speakers at the ceremony described Mama Annah Ndung’u as a devoted mother, community mentor, and pillar of strength to her family. Leaders used the occasion to call for unity and respect among political competitors, saying moments of grief should bring leaders together regardless of party affiliations.
Addressing mourners, several politicians praised Kanini Kega for maintaining close ties with leaders from different political camps despite the country’s evolving political landscape. Others emphasized the importance of peace and unity ahead of the next political season.
The heavy political presence at the ceremony underscored Kanini Kega’s influence in both regional and national politics, with leaders from rival factions setting aside differences to stand with the bereaved family during the final send-off.