Ruto’s Message to Khalwale After Wife’s Death
This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.
President William Ruto has sent a message of condolence to Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale following the death of his wife, Gloria Sekeiyan.
In a statement on Saturday, August 15, Ruto, together with First Lady Rachel Ruto, mourned the loss and conveyed their sympathies to Khalwale and his family during the difficult period.
Ruto said they were standing with the senator and his family as they grieve the death of Gloria.
"Mama Rachel and I extend our heartfelt condolences to Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale following the passing of his beloved wife, Gloria Sekeiyan.
"We stand with Senator Khalwale and his family in this moment of immense grief," the Head of State wrote.
Read More
Ruto said the death of a spouse, companion and mother leaves a significant void, while praying for strength and comfort for the bereaved family.
"The loss of a spouse, companion and mother leaves a deep void, and we pray that God grants the family strength, comfort and peace as they mourn and cherish her memory," he added.
Earlier Saturday, Khalwale announced his wife's sudden death, confirming that she passed away after suffering a heart attack.
Khalwale and the late Gloria, his third wife, had eight children together.
"My dear wife, Gloria Sekeiyan Khalwale, has this morning suddenly collapsed and died after a heart attack.
"She is the mother of Engine Kukaste Khalwale. Olivia Sabayi Khalwale, Flavia Shimuli Khalwale, Gift Atubukha Khalwale, Meliza Khamwenyi Khalwale, Velma Nasiebanda Khalwale, Sonia Inuni Khalwale, and Maura Makatse Khalwale," he announced.
Following the tragic news, leaders across the political divide have sent messages of condolence to Khalwale and his family.
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa expressed his condolences to Khalwale, describing the death of his wife as sudden and conveying his sympathies to the family and friends.
"I extend my sincere condolences to Kakamega Senator Dr. Boni Khalwale following the sudden passing of his wife, Mama Gloria Sekeiyan Khalwale.
"My thoughts are with Senator Khalwale, his family and friends during this difficult time. May her soul rest in eternal peace," he wrote.
Former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala also mourned Gloria’s death, saying the news had come as a profound shock, reportedly following a heart attack.
"The news of Gloria’s passing, reportedly following a heart attack, has come as a profound shock. At a time such as this, political differences and disagreements fade into insignificance in the face of the pain of losing a loved one so suddenly," he stated.
Malala said despite their political differences and competition, the death had brought into focus their shared humanity and the pain of losing a loved one.
"As political competitors, we may have differed sharply on matters of public interest and the direction of our community and country. However, beyond politics, we remain fellow human beings bound by our shared humanity and the experiences that touch us all," he added.
Trans Nzoia Senator Allan Chesang also conveyed his condolences to Khalwale and his family, praying for strength and comfort during the mourning period.
"On behalf of the great people of Trans Nzoia County, I stand with you in this moment of sorrow. May God give you strength, comfort your hearts and grant your family peace in the days ahead," he said.
Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula joined other leaders in mourning Gloria, extending his thoughts and prayers to Khalwale, his family, friends and loved ones.
"My thoughts and prayers are with Senator Khalwale, his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult and painful time. May they find strength and comfort in the memories they shared, and may Mama Gloria’s soul rest in eternal peace," he wrote.
Reporting originally appeared via Nairobi Leo. Read the full source for additional context.