Rigathi Gachagua Pays Last Respect To His Former High School Principal By Carrying His Casket

• Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua joined fellow alums to carry the casket of his former high school principal, Mwalimu Julius Kano Ndumbi
• Addressing mourners at the service, Gachagua paid tribute to Mwalimu Ndumbi, sharing the profound impact the late educator had on his life
• Gachagua shared a personal anecdote about how the principal's teachings on debate had a lasting effect on his career

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua honoured the late Mwalimu Julius Kano Ndumbi, his former high school principal, by joining former students in carrying his casket.

What did Rigathi Gachagua do at his former principal's burial?

The former educator was laid to rest in a heartfelt burial ceremony in Gichugu Constituency, Kirinyaga County.

In an emotional tribute, Gachagua spoke about the profound influence Mwalimu Ndumbi had on his life and career.

"This man lying here was a master stroke. Through his discipline and stern direction, he made me who I am today," Gachagua stated.

Reflecting on the lessons learned under Mwalimu Ndumbi's guidance, Gachagua highlighted a key moment in his life where these teachings proved invaluable.

"The late Kano taught me how to debate, and during that time, he told me that one day it would come to save me somewhere," he recalled.

"True to it, during our presidential debate with my sister Karua, I unleashed Mwalimu's tricks, and since then, it has never been the same again," he added.

Gachagua shares he learnt of teacher's death while fasting

Gachagua emphasised the importance of respecting and valuing educators as they shape the future of individuals with their guidance.

The deputy president also shared the circumstances under which he learned of Mwalimu Ndumbi's passing.

According to him, he learnt of his former principal's death when he had taken seven days of praying, fasting, and meditation.

Despite instructing his aides that no one would be allowed to distract him, they had no choice but to inform him about the teacher's death because of the relationship they had.

Joining his fellow alums, Gachagua's act of carrying the casket was a testament to the deep respect and admiration he held for his former principal.

This, with his heartfelt words, underscored the lasting impact of Mwalimu Ndumbi's dedication and mentorship.

Gachagua vows not to fight anyone

TUKO.co.ke previously reported that Gachagua, speaking at the funeral, pledged to uphold unity within the Mt Kenya region.

Addressing the escalating tensions between his supporters and those aligned with President William Ruto on Tuesday, May 21, Gachagua emphasised his commitment to preventing any divisions.

He noted the unusual unrest within the region compared to others and suggested that external forces might be sowing discord among Mt. Kenya voters.

"I, Rigathi Gachagua, will never fight my brother or sister. We have learnt our lesson of division. Other regions are not fighting. People want this region to fight so we can get lost," Gachagua swore.

He also alluded to the region's history of internal conflicts, urging for solidarity in the face of potential disunity.

Proofreading by Otukho Jackson, a multimedia journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke