Ida Odinga’s touching tribute to the late Joyce Laboso

Ida Odinga, wife to NASA leader Raila Odinga, on Tuesday mourned the demise of the late Bomet Governor Joyce Laboso, describing her as an exceptional leader who defied all odds to become a governor.

Through a post on Twitter, Ida recalled teaching Laboso in school and lauded her jovial nature.

"Today I mourn a student, a colleague and a friend.

I first met Joyce when I was teaching at Kenya High School and the young lady enrolled as my student.

Since then our relationship grew into a friendship. Always humble, respectful, social and friendly, Joyce made history for women in this country.

Against all odds she was elected MP for Sotik. She broke the clan barrier that plagues many women in politics and was able to rise to the position of Governor of Bomet despite being married in Nyanza.

She is proof that African women can soar beyond negative stereotypes if given equal opportunities

Kenya has lost a pillar that was the symbol of unity and development.

I have personally lost a great friend. May the good Lord rest her soul in eternal peace."