Raila, Kalonzo and Mudavadi among first leaders to mourn billionaire Chris Kirubi
The unprecedented death of business mogul DR. Christopher John Kirubi has thrown the country into mourning.
Kirubi died on Monday, after long battle with cancer, at his home around 1 pm.
”It is with deep sorrow that we regret to inform you of the passing away today of Dr. Christopher J. Kirubi, EBS, prominent businessman, investor and entrepreneur in Kenya and the East Africa region,” a statement released by Centum Investment Limited read in part.
ODM leader Raila Odinga, Wiper's Kalonzo Musyoka and ANC's Musalia Mudavadi led the opposition in condoling with the family of the late businessman.
Raila in his condolences message eulogized Kirubi as not only a businessman but also a friend whose philanthropic work changed the lives of many.
"Chris Kirubi was my friend and one to many others and a mentor to even more. He was a dedicated entrepreneur and philanthropist who helped scores of Kenyans over time. My heartfelt condolences go to his family, friends and all those whose lives he touched. Rest In Peace Chris," Raila tweeted on Monday.
Kalonzo on his part said Kirubi has built a lasting legacy and went on to rekindle his Monday morning message that came hours before his death.
"My family and I are greatly saddened on the passing of Chris Kirubi. "CK" was the embodiment of entrepreneurship building lasting legacies. His last tweet this morning summed up his essence: "... Give yourself a go towards your success plan." That he did. Rest now my brother CK," he tweeted.
Mudavadi remembered Kirubi as a humorous and avid golfer who also participated actively on matters of national importance.
"My condolences go to the family of late, Chris Kirubi. He was an illustrious businessman who spoke candidly on matters of national importance and the economy. A true patriot who told you as it is; without blinking. Over and above that he was witty, humorous and an avid golfer," he said.
Ford Kenya party leader Moses Wentang'ula on his part said: "My condolences to the family and friends of Chris Kirubi, an alumnus of Friends School Kamusinga and business magnet. He was a great indigenous entrepreneur who made a difference in many people's lives. May his soul rest in eternal peace."
Kirubi was diagnosed with Cancer in 2017.
His battle with cancer since then saw him reduce his interactions with people to avoid contracting germs.
Kirubi invested in manufacturing, media, real estate, insurance and investment sectors. He is the owner of the popular radio station Capital Fm.
He served as the Chairman of Coca-Cola Nairobi Bottlers, DHL Worldwide Express, Capital Media Group, International House Limited, and Smart Applications International among others. He was Deputy Chairman of Bayer East Africa Limited.
” He was passionate about making a difference in the lives of disenfranchised groups and was involved in a number of social causes,” Centum Investment Company said in a statement.
Until his death, he served on the Harvard Global Advisory Council (Massachusetts, USA) as an advisor on education matters of Africa.
He leaves behind two children namely Mary-Ann Musangi and Robert Kirubi.
