Curtain falls on former Cabinet Minister Kabeere M’Mbijjiwe

Former Cabinet minister Kabeere M’Mbijjiwe is dead.

Mr M’Mbijjiwe, who served in various capacities in the government of former President Daniel arap Moi, died of cancer on Wednesday night. He was 91.

The former political heavyweight in Meru had been admitted in Kiirua Mission Hospital in Buuri sub-county.

He will be remembered for his battle with the minister for Lands at the time, the late Jackson ‘Harvester’ Angaine, and Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi for control of local politics.

M’Mbijjiwe, who was unseated as South Imenti MP after 15 years by Kiraitu in 1992, came from South Imenti and Angaine from North Imenti.

Yesterday, Kiraitu led local leaders and residents in paying tribute to the former minister. South Imenti MP Kathuri Murungi, former Methodist Church of Kenya bishop Lawi Imathiu and Njuri Ncheke Secretary General Phares Ruteere praised M’Mbijjiwe as a great leader.

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M’Mbijjiwe, a member of Kanu party, exited national politics after losing to Kiratu, of Ford Kenya party.

“He was a good leader all the Ameru were proud of. Condolences to his family, on behalf of the Ameru people and Kenyans at large,” Kiraitu said.

Political duel

He added that his political duel with M’Mbijjiwe, who headed various ministries, including Foreign Affairs and Health, was not personal.

“M’Mbijjiwe was a Kanu man then. We were in the Opposition and we wanted to remove Kanu to usher in multi-party politics. I had nothing against him.”

The MP said: “He has left a rich legacy in South Imenti and the entire country. His contributions, especially to the water, electricity and health sectors, will continue to benefit many generations to come. He worked hard to unite all communities and advocated for equality. I personally visited him at his Mitunguu home for advice.”

Bishop Imathiu described the former minister as a principled man who set a good example and worked for the unity of all Ameru people.

Served diligently

“He served all Kenyans diligently. We are saddened by his death,” said Imathiu.

Ruteere also praised M’Mbijjiwe as a great leader, saying the local residents would miss his guidance.

“He was a Njuri elder and a forthright leader. He was a visionary and served selflessly and with dedication,” said Ruteere.

Simon Kobia, a family friend, said M’Mbijjiwe would be buried at his Miramba home in South Imenti, next to his wife Julia, who died some years ago.