Emotional burial ceremony for Gachagua grandson

Jeff Karungaru (right) and his wife Linet Karungaru (second left) during the burial of their two-year-old son Wilson Ngatia. [Kibata Kihu/Standard]

The late Nyeri Governor Nderitu Gachagua’s grandson, Wilson Ngatia, was yesterday laid to rest in an emotional ceremony.

Master Ngatia was buried at Margaret Karungaru, Gachagua widow’s home in Ragati village in Karatina Town.

In an emotional ceremony, family and friends eulogised the two-year-old as a loving boy who loved to play, sing and watch popular cartoon series ‘Dora the Explorer’.

His parents, Jeff and Linet Karungaru, held on to each other as they paid tribute to their son.

Favourite word

“His favourite word was ‘Oh Men!’ while his favourite rhyme was ‘Twinkle Twinkle Little Star,’” Ms Karungaru said.

Leaders, among them, Governor Wahome Gakuru, his deputy Mutahi Kahiga and former Senator Mutahi Kagwe who attended the funeral urged the family to support the couple in bearing the loss.

“I send my deepest condolences to his family. We have known each other for years, especially when I was campaigning against the late governor in 2013. But as I got to know him, I respected him as a person,” he said.

The chairperson of the Caucus of Wives of Members of Parliament Jackie Kiarahu also sent her condolences. She said they were devastated by the news of the death.

“As wives of Members of Parliament, we are with you Margaret and your family in spirit and prayers as you go through this tough time,” she said.

Deputy Governor Kahiga consoled the family and urged them to stick together in this difficult moment.

“We hope that the arrest of the owner of the dogs and the killing of the animals will start the process of healing for the family, and hopefully get justice for Ngatia,” he said.

Mathira MP Rigathi Gachagua, brother of late Gachagua did not attend the ceremony.

Wilson Ngatia was on Thursday last week playing outside their home in Nyeri Town when a pack of six Rottweilers dogs from another homestead gained entry into the compound and mauled him.

On Thursday this week, veterinary officers killed the dogs.