Ruto mourns death of Kinangop MP’s father
By Aloys Michael, May 13, 2026President William Ruto has joined leaders across the country in mourning the death of Mzee Eshbon Thuku, the father of Kinangop Member of Parliament (MP) Zachary Kwenya Thuku, describing him as a hardworking and devoted community leader whose legacy will live on through the many lives he touched.
In a post on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, President Ruto conveyed his sympathies to the Kinangop legislator, his family and friends following the loss of the respected patriarch.
“May God grant the family and friends strength to bear with the loss of Mzee Eshbon Thuku, the dear father to Kinangop MP Zachary Kwenya,” the president said.
Ruto praised the late Mzee Thuku as “one of a kind,” noting that he was hardworking, progressive, amiable and deeply committed to serving the community.
“Mzee was one of a kind; hardworking, progressive, amiable and devoted to serving the community,” the Head of State stated.
The president also encouraged the grieving family to remain strong in faith during the difficult period, drawing comfort from scripture.
“Be comforted by the word of the Lord in Psalms 46:1: ‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble,’” Ruto added.
The message from the president shows the close political relationship between Ruto and the Kinangop lawmaker, who is considered one of Ruto’s staunch allies in the Mt Kenya region, despite serving under the Jubilee Party ticket.
Earlier, MP Zac Kwenya Thuku announced the passing of his father through a heartfelt Facebook post on Sunday, May 10, 2026, in which he paid glowing tribute to the man he described as a pillar in his life and a source of inspiration.
“Dad, you have departed the physical realm, gone to live eternally with your maker whom you served,” the legislator wrote.
The MP emotionally described his father as a loving parent, mentor and spiritual guide who shaped his character and values from an early age.
“This wonderful soul, my loving dad, my instructor, disciplinarian, my first preacher and teacher, my mentor and role model,” he added.
Leaders and residents from Kinangop continued to send messages of condolence to the family, remembering Mzee Thuku as a humble and respected elder who played a significant role in community development and mentorship.