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Preparations for the burial of veteran Kanu politician and businessman Hosea Kiplagat have begun in earnest following his  death on Saturday at the age of 76.

Yesterday, friends and relatives trooped to his home in Karen, Nairobi to condole with the family where a committee was established to spearhead the burial plans. 

Speaking to the People Daily on phone, former Cabinet minister Musa Sirma, who is also a close relative of the deceased, described his death as shocking and painful. 

During the Kanu era, Kiplagat was a close confidant of President Daniel arap Moi and established himself as one of the powerful figures-at the centre of power.  

“Kiplagat touched the lives of many people. He often approached the president and sought to have the problems of the people addressed. He sacrificed a lot for the people,” he added. 

News of his death was broken by family spokesman Lt. Col. CK Mundui on Saturday morning noting that he had been rushed to Karen Hospital, upon falling ill at his home. The deceased is also a former chairman for Co-operative Bank. 

In his message of condolence, Deputy President William Ruto described Kiplagat as an outstanding leader, a mentor and a selfless servant of the community. 

“He was steadfast, visionary and a committed promoter of unity,” he said.

Kiplagat vied for Baringo Central parliamentary seat in 2007 but lost to Sammy Mwaita.

After the 2007 elections, he retreated to a quiet life but his name featured at the courts where he was battling auctioneers.

He was particularly fighting off auctioneers who were determined to auction his Karen home and other properties in Eldoret over Sh370 million he guaranteed to two firms.  

He reportedly collapsed while having a chat with friends at a joint near his home and died moments later.