Wiper Party leader Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka has led tributes to the late Abubakar Zein, describing him as a principled patriot, constitutional reform champion and trusted adviser whose service to Kenya will leave a lasting mark on the country’s democratic journey.
Zein, a former East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) member, constitutional reform advocate and head of Kalonzo’s Presidential Secretariat, died on Thursday, prompting an outpouring of condolences from leaders across the political divide.
In a condolence message released on Thursday, Kalonzo said Zein dedicated his life to serving the country with integrity, always placing the interests of the nation ahead of personal ambition.
“This morning, a family lost its anchor, Kenya lost a patriot, and I lost an invaluable colleague, friend, and confidant,” Kalonzo said.
The former Vice President described Zein as “a profile in courage”, saying he repeatedly chose “the difficult path over the comfortable one, principle over politics, country over career.”
“Zein did not ask what was convenient. He did what was right,” Kalonzo added.
Kalonzo praised Zein’s contribution to Kenya’s constitutional reforms, saying his knowledge as a political scientist and his diplomatic approach earned him a place among the architects of the 2010 Constitution through his work as a commissioner in the Constitution of Kenya Review Commission.
He said Zein also played a key role in the country’s opposition politics, serving in different political formations including CORD, NASA and Azimio la Umoja, where he remained a close ally of veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga.
Kalonzo also recognised Zein’s work at the East African Legislative Assembly between 2012 and 2017, saying he championed good governance and efforts to fight corruption across the region.
The Wiper leader recalled that their relationship grew stronger during the 2023 National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) talks, where they worked closely together.
“It was there, under that pressure, that I saw the full measure of the man: principled and unshakeable. What began as a professional partnership became a genuine friendship, one I will carry for the rest of my days,” he said.
Kalonzo said appointing Zein to lead his Presidential Secretariat was among the best decisions he had made, describing him as a humble leader who guided and supported staff at every level.
“Zein listened, mentored and led by example, not by title,” Kalonzo said.
He also thanked members of Kenya’s creative industry for organising the Solidarity for Zein fundraiser set for Saturday, July 11, at the Alliance Française Nairobi to support Zein’s family and help clear his medical bills.
“I urge all Kenyans of goodwill to attend, and to give generously,” he appealed.
Kalonzo concluded by extending condolences on behalf of his family, the Wiper Patriotic Front and the Azimio coalition, praying that Allah forgives Zein’s shortcomings and grants him the highest ranks of Jannatul Firdaus.