Mixed reactions as Isaac Ruto given black out at Laboso’s memorial and burial services

Failure to give ousted Bomet governor Isaac Ruto a chance to address mourners at the burial of Joyce Laboso has elicited mixed reactions.

Despite attending the three memorial services held in Nairobi, Bomet and Kisumu, the Chama Cha Mashinani (CCM) leader was never accorded an opportunity to eulogize the late governor.

While in the UK for medication, the CCM leader visited her in the company of others.

When Laboso died on Monday Ruto sent his condolences to the family and eulogized her as a dedicated leader.

“Our prayers and heartfelt condolences to the family of Hon. Joyce Laboso in this time of loss and grief. The Governor will be remembered for her dedication to improving the lives of the residents of Bomet,” he tweeted.

And as every speaker rose to pay tribute to the late governor, during the services, many heaped praise on her for initiating a spirited fight against her fierce rival, Ruto.

Despite the former governor having handed the instruments of power peacefully, failing to grant him an opportunity to speak has been deemed “unkind.”

Here are some of the twitter reactions:

Donald B Kipkorir @DonaldBKipkorir

There were three requiem masses. They all praised her for being pacific & reconciler: Isaac Ruto attended all ... Nairobi. Bomet. Koru. Yet, not once was he even told to speak... Yet Isaac conceded defeat & gave her a chance to govern. A chance to give effect to talk was missed.

AfriCAN @AfricanLeaders_

Isaac Ruto has a functional brain and there is no way he could start politicking at Laboso's Funeral Masses. The Power cartels know this but they still gave have him a total blackout for no apparent reason.

Eng.Peter Kiptoo @Hon_Kiptoo

Whoever made sure that Kipsigis Supremo Isaac Ruto doesn't eulogize his successor Dr Joyce Laboso at All Saints Cathedral, Bomet and Fort Tenan is the true enemy of Joyce. The witch should never be allowed next to the gate of the statehouse.

MESHEK @Kevlan_

Former Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto was overlooked by all the Mcs and wasn't given an opportunity to pay tribute to his successor. Not that it's a complain but, decorum ought to have been maintained.

lebo82 @cnatembea

Isaac Ruto should have been given a chance to speak. He surely must have had something special to say seeing that he ran against her. The guy is full of humour and wisdom.

Victor omar Vinyari @Victortirop

Isaac Ruto was the one who asked organisers not to give him any chance to speak. He was Joyce's competitor and the one who called her names because she was married outside Kipsgis land. How did you expect him to talk in front of Edwin Abonyo someone he had abused???

george korir @georgekorir4

#Isaac Ruto was seen as a brat. This Barchok or so will see dust coming election. How can you deny the first Governor a minute to eulogize his competitor!