Lucy Kibaki was committed to the causes she believed in, leaders eulogise former first lady

Nairobi: Former First Lady Lucy Kibaki has been eulogised as a strong defender of the values she believed in as Kenyan leaders, friends and family gathered in Nairobi for her requiem mass.

The Mass was held at Consolata Shrine in Westlands and was attended by close members of the family, led by former President Mwai Kibaki.

Her daughter Judy Kibaki, who read her life history and a eulogy on behalf of her siblings termed Mama Lucy as a dedicated mother, an extraordinary woman role model and mentor.

President Uhuru Kenyatta and Deputy President William Ruto led senior Government officials and other dignitaries in attending the Requiem Mass.

President Kenyatta said Mama Lucy Kibaki will be remembered for her strong support for family values and her advocacy for the Girl Child.

He said the former First Lady will also be remembered for the efforts she put into the fight against HIV and AIDS.

The President said he has known Mama Lucy from the time when he was young and knew her as a person who valued good behaviour.

“There were no half ways. You were either in her right side or her wrong side,” said the President.

Deputy President Ruto also described the personal experiences he has had with the First Lady.

He described two occasions, one within State House and another in Eldoret, when the former First Lady spoke her mind to him.

“Mama Lucy Kibaki was different. She was different. She spoke her mind freely and honestly. She was never hostage to what people wanted her to be. She was herself,” said the DP.

The President and the DP spoke after the grandchildren of the former First Lady read eulogies.

Another mass will be held in Othaya on Saturday.