President William Ruto has led the country in mourning the death of Mzee Isaac Ichung’wa Ngugi, the father of National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, who passed away at the age of 105.
In a message of condolence, President Ruto described Mzee Ngugi as an industrious and astute businessman who was among the brains behind the founding of Kikuyu Town. The President noted that Mzee Ngugi touched many lives through his transformative initiatives, especially in supporting the vulnerable in society.
“Our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends on the passing of Mzee Isaac Ngugi, the father of Hon. Kimani Ichung’wah. He was an industrious and astute businessman and one of the brains that founded Kikuyu Town. Mzee touched many lives through his many transformative initiatives that supported the vulnerable. His legacy will live on. Rest in peace, Mzee,” the President said.
According to the family, the 105-year-old patriarch passed away peacefully in his sleep at his Kikuyu home on Thursday morning, September 4, following a week-long admission at Karen Hospital. He had been unwell but remained in high spirits, spending his final days surrounded by family members. His death has been described as the close of a remarkable chapter in Kenyan history, marking the end of a life that spanned more than a century and witnessed defining moments in the country’s political and social transformation.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula broke the news to Members of Parliament through a formal notice, describing Mzee Ngugi’s passing as the loss of a noble elder and a wise counselor. He noted that funeral arrangements were underway and that Kenyans would be able to pay their last respects starting Tuesday, September 9.
“At 105 years, Mzee Isaac Ngugi lived a full life, offering counsel, wisdom, and service to his community. His memories will bring solace to the family,” Wetang’ula said.
Tributes have since poured in from leaders across the political divide, underlining the respect and admiration Mzee Ngugi commanded throughout his life. Former Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui remembered him as a joyful and dedicated community leader who deeply valued the people he served. He praised Ngugi’s belief in organic farming, saying his passion for agriculture inspired many generations.
“He was a joyful and dedicated community leader who deeply valued the people he served. A true believer in organic farming, he lived long and witnessed many defining moments in history. May the Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest and peace,” Kinyanjui said.
Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi sent his condolences to the Ichung’wah family, describing Mzee Ngugi as a man whose values will continue to live through his children.
“My heartfelt condolences to the family of Hon. Kimani Ichung’wah on the passing of your beloved father. May God grant you peace, comfort, and strength during this difficult time. May his legacy live on through the memories and values he instilled in you,” he said.
Transport and Roads Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen also conveyed his sympathies, assuring Ichung’wah of his prayers.
“I wish to express my heartfelt condolences to the family of my dear friend Hon. Kimani Ichung’wah. My prayers are with you during these difficult times. Poleni sana,” Murkomen said.
Former Kiambu Governor William Kabogo eulogised Mzee Ngugi as a noble elder and a pillar of wisdom who was widely respected.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Mzee Isaac Ichung’wa Ngugi … a noble elder, a pillar of wisdom and an inspiration to many. May Mzee’s legacy live on and his soul rest in eternal peace,” he said.
Other leaders, including Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa, also sent their condolences, highlighting Ngugi’s role as a family man and a community pillar. Barasa described him as a source of inspiration and prayed for comfort for the family during their time of grief.
Mzee Ngugi’s long life was marked by his entrepreneurial spirit, community leadership, and dedication to uplifting others. He played a significant role in shaping Kikuyu Town and remained an active voice in community affairs well into his old age. Leaders and residents alike have remembered him not only as the father of the Majority Leader but as a man whose wisdom and generosity transcended politics.
Funeral arrangements are ongoing and the family has indicated that details will be communicated in due course. For now, leaders and Kenyans continue to celebrate a man who lived through generations, leaving behind a legacy of service, resilience and commitment to his people.
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