DCP Party leader Rigathi Gachagua on Friday delivered an emotional tribute to the late Emurua Dikirr MP Johanna Ng’eno, describing him as a brave and selfless leader who stood firm in defending his people and their interests.
The message was shared ahead of Ng’eno’s burial in Emurua Dikirr, where leaders, residents, and supporters gathered to honour the life of the outspoken legislator who died in a helicopter crash last week.
In his tribute, Gachagua mourned the loss of a close political ally and friend, saying Ng’eno’s death had left a deep gap not only in his community but also in national leadership. He described the late MP as a determined voice for the people and someone who remained committed to his convictions even during difficult political moments.
“It is painful to pen this tribute to a great leader of our time,” Gachagua said while expressing sorrow over the death of the lawmaker.
Ng’eno died on February 28, 2026, after a helicopter crash in Chepkiep area of Mosop Sub-County in Nandi County. The Eurocopter AS350 aircraft he was travelling in reportedly hit trees shortly after take-off due to poor weather, caught fire and killed all six people on board, including the pilot and close associates.
The accident happened on a Saturday afternoon as the aircraft flew across the rugged terrain and dense forest in the Mosop region. Early reports indicated that bad weather conditions may have contributed to the crash.
At the time of his death, Ng’eno was serving his third term as the elected Member of Parliament for Emurua Dikirr Constituency in Narok County. He was widely known as a vocal and courageous legislator with strong support at the grassroots level.
Ng’eno first entered Parliament in 2013 and built a reputation as a fearless voice in national debates and in defending the interests of his constituents. His death sparked mourning across the country and calls for a detailed investigation into what caused the crash.
Gachagua described Ng’eno as a leader who always spoke his mind and remained focused on serving the people who elected him. He praised his character and dedication to public service.
“He was brave, courageous, focused, brilliant and selfless,” Gachagua said, adding that Ng’eno gave everything he had to the people he represented.
In the tribute, the former Deputy President said Ng’eno had taught him the importance of standing firm in defending community interests. According to him, the late MP believed leaders should not shy away from speaking for their people.
“You taught me to be unashamed of defending the interests of one’s community and people,” he wrote, adding, “who doesn’t have an origin?”
Gachagua said Ng’eno strongly championed the interests of the Kipsigis community, which he described as hardworking but often overlooked in development matters.
He noted that despite the region having fertile land and reliable rainfall, residents had continued to face challenges such as poor roads, limited electricity supply, and lack of reliable water services.
According to Gachagua, Ng’eno remained firm in highlighting these concerns and regularly spoke about the frustrations of people living in the area.
“You were unbowed and resolute,” he said while recalling the MP’s determination in raising the issues affecting his constituents.
The former Deputy President also claimed that Ng’eno faced political isolation because of his strong views. He alleged that the lawmaker was sometimes blocked from accessing State House, blaming what he called powerful figures in politics.
“I have seen your tormentors who hunted you like an antelope shedding crocodile tears,” Gachagua stated while accusing some leaders of pretending to mourn him despite opposing him during his lifetime.
He said he had supported Ng’eno at various times during political challenges, including when the MP faced difficulties related to leadership positions in Parliament.
“I am a proud friend as I stood firm with you,” he wrote while recalling efforts made to help Ng’eno secure a position as chairperson of a parliamentary committee.
Gachagua also expressed sympathy to the late MP’s family and the residents of Emurua Dikirr, describing the death as untimely and painful.
“I feel for your young family and the Kipsigis community,” he said while praying for comfort and strength for those grieving.
He added that the community had lost an influential political figure who had consistently defended their interests.
“To the orphaned Kipsigis community, for the loss of your kingpin, may the Lord have mercy on you,” he wrote.
Gachagua ended his tribute with a final farewell to his friend and political ally.
“Rest in peace my friend, the hero of our time,” he said, ending with the words, “Rest well Johanna Ng’eno the Kingpin!”
Ng’eno is survived by his wife and children. Supporters say his leadership left a lasting mark on Emurua Dikirr and the wider region.
The burial ceremony in Emurua Dikirr brought together political leaders, residents, and supporters who gathered to pay their last respects to the late MP. Speakers at the event reflected on themes of unity, fair representation, and the need to defend the interests of local communities.
