Leaders from across Africa and the world sent their condolences following the death of former Kenyan President Daniel arap Moi at a hospital in the capital Nairobi early on Tuesday.
Moi was Kenya’s second president and ruled the country between 1978 when he succeeded the late President Jomo Kenyatta, and 2002, when he stepped down.
Tanzanian President John Magufuli said the country will remember him for his efforts to improve bilateral relations between Kenya and Tanzania and the revival of the East African Community.
Kwa niaba ya Serikali na Watanzania nakupa pole Mhe.Rais Uhuru Kenyatta na Wakenya wote kwa kuondokewa na Rais Mstaafu Daniel Toroitich arap Moi. Watanzania tutamkumbuka kwa uongozi wake mahiri, jitihada za kuimarisha uhusiano wetu na Kenya na kufufua Jumuiya ya Afrika Mashariki.
— Dr John Magufuli (@MagufuliJP) February 4, 2020
The Speaker of Uganda’s parliament Rebecca Kadaga echoed Magufuli’s sentiments noting Moi’s efforts in reviving the EAC and providing a sanctuary for Ugandans during times of political upheaval.
“During his Presidency, which spanned from 1978 to 2002, Uganda went through throes of political instability. Over the period, Uganda witnessed seven regime changes. Many Ugandans fled and found refuge in Kenya,” Kadaga said in a statement.
“We salute Mzee Moi for having been a good neighbour and provided sanctuary for several Ugandans whose lives were in grave danger. And above all, we salute him for enhancing trade and political co-existence between our two nations,” she concluded.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Burundi President Pierre Nkurunziza also sent their messages of condolence.
I would like to express my condolences to the family and friends of former Kenyan President H.E. Daniel arap Moi who passed away today. May his soul Rest In Peace.
— Abiy Ahmed Ali 🇪🇹 (@AbiyAhmedAli) February 4, 2020
On behalf of the People of Burundi and on my own behalf, I join the kenyans and all African well wishers in expressing sympathy to the family of His Excellency Daniel Toroitich Arap Moi, former President of the Republic of Kenya, following his demise.
— Pierre Nkurunziza (@pnkurunziza) February 4, 2020
Patricia Scotland, secretary-general of the Commonwealth, of which Kenya is a member, also mourned the death of the former president.
“I’m saddened to hear about the passing away of H.E. Daniel Toroitich arap Moi, the second President of the Republic of Kenya and a friend of the Commonwealth. On behalf of the Commonwealth family, I extend my deepest condolences to his family and to the people of Kenya.”
