Condolence messages pour in for June Moi

June Chebet Moi. [Courtesy, Family]

Condolences continue to pour in for June Chebet Moi, the daughter of former President Daniel arap Moi.

The Moi family announced her death early Thursday, through a statement, and requested for privacy as they come to terms with the shocking news.

June died at Nairobi hospital after a short illness.

“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing on of our beloved, June Chebet Moi this morning. At this time of grief, we request your prayers and privacy as we the family comes to terms with the tragic loss of our sister. May her soul rest in eternal peace,” read the statement.

President William Ruto posted his condolence message on his X platform: “My heartfelt condolences to the family of the late President Daniel arap Moi over the loss of June Chebet Moi. May God give you strength at this difficult time. Rest in peace, June.”

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said June had left a remarkable legacy, describing her as a personal friend.

He said: “Her charisma and charming demeanour were truly remarkable. My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this time of mourning.”

Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSME Development Simon Chelugui remembered June as a patriot.

He wrote on his X platform. “ …I am saddened by the news of June’s death and I hereby join other Kenyans in mourning the passing of this wonderful lady.” Lydia Ntimama, the daughter of former minister William Ole Ntimama,  remembered June as a strong woman.

Writing on behalf of the Ntimama family, Lydia said her father and Moi were great friends and their families have remained friends.  

Many who knew June have described her as a woman of charisma and endearing demeanour, a remarkable golfer and polo player who was sporty even during her school days.

That despite being the daughter of Kenya’s second president, June chose a quiet life, most of the time keeping away from the limelight. Her death yesterday morning shook friends and family.

In a video captured in February last year, June is seen paying her respect to a father she loved and cherished. She was the last born among the former president’s eight children and had close ties with her brothers and sisters.

June’s educational journey started at Nairobi Primary School in Kilimani before proceeding to Kenya High School and Loreto Msongari, where she is credited with serving as the captain of the hockey team.

She would later pursue her studies at York University, in Toronto, Canada where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1987. That was followed by a Master’s degree in Psychology from Boston University in 1988.

June Moi has died five years after her elder brother Jonathan Moi in 2019 and four years after her father.

She leaves behind a daughter Paula Jepkemboi.

Her legacy and service to the nation will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of crossing paths with her.