Midiwo remembered as a warrior of good governance, integrity
Former Gem MP Jakoyo Midiwo, who died last week, was yesterday described as a defender of good governance and democracy.
Leaders who spoke during Midiwo’s requiem mass at Citam Church Valley Road Nairobi, eulogized him as an honest leader who fought corruption both in and outside Parliament.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga, who is Midiwo’s cousin, said the former MP’s death shocked him to the extent that he did not know how to conduct himself.
“I rushed to the hospital where I found Midiwo smiling on his bed but dead. He was actually smiling, and I thought that I could talk to him but he was dead,” Raila told the mourners.
“My mother was the eldest and Midiwo’s mother was the last born,” Raila said.
Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka described Midowo as an astute debater, a man of his word and honour.
Building bridges
Midiwo, Kalonzo said, fought for democracy all his political life.
“Midiwo would throw punches and kicks to protect integrity. He hated corruption,” Kalonzo added.
The Wiper Party leader urged leaders to continue to build bridges as they wait for the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) case to be concluded.
Amani National Congress (ANC) leader Musalia Mudavadi said the country had lost a patriot, and asked his fellow leaders to work together and build bridges.
Siaya senator James Orengo said Midiwo believed in the institution of Parliament and spoke his mind on critical issues.
Suba South MP John Mbadi described Midiwo as a strategist and an honest man. He caused laughter when he recounted how he and Midiwo physically fought when they differed over issues he refused to disclose.
Born in 1966, Midiwo ran for the Gem seat in the 2002 election and won. He was re-elected twice but lost to Elisha Odhiambo in 2017.
He served as Leader of Minority and Minority Whip in the 11th Parliament.
His two widows mourned him as a caring husband and father.
In her eulogy, Jakoyo’s first wife Betty Muganda recalled how they met in the United States when she was sent to deliver tea leaves to him from Kenya.
Midiwo’s second wife Rose Olayo said his death was a big blow to her and their child.
“They say time heals all wounds but with your passing, I have come to realise that this is not entirely true,” she said.
