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President William Ruto and his deputy Rigathi Gachagua have skipped the funeral of former Education CS George Magoha even as former President Uhuru Kenyatta and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga joined mourners in Yala, Siaya county to pay their last respects.

The burial is currently underway at Umiru village, Gem Sub-County in Siaya County.

Magoha’s family while speaking to the press noted that they would expect politicians to behave well and avoid politics.

His elder brother John Obare Magoha said that although there could be political tension between leaders, he expects tolerance and asked politicians to behave well during the funeral.

“We have heard rumours that the President will attend as well as other dignitaries. But while they are allowed to say whatever they want to say, we do not expect politics to overtake the funeral service,” Obare told a local publication.

Obare stated that while Odinga is a celebrated hero in Siaya, he asked for respect for the dead.

“Raila is a hero in this region but we all know Prof was not a politician and, therefore, we expect all politicians to behave decently for the sake of my brother,” he added.

Magoha’s burial was catered by the government with Uhuru’s Cabinet taking lead in organizing the funeral of their former colleague.

The government also provides other logistical support including tents and food for the mourners.

“We will support the family in every way possible to ensure a befitting send-off for the former Education Cabinet Secretary,” the DP said. 

The committee was chaired by former ministers Fred Matiang’i and Raphael Tuju, who hails from Siaya County.