| President Daniel arap Moi raises his baton to salute Kenyans during the 34th independence day celebrations in Nairobi, Kenya on December 12, 1997 [File: Reuters/George Mulala] |
President Muhammadu Buhari has described the late former President of Kenya, Daniel Arap Moi as “a frontline nationalist who gave his best for the development of his country and was a key factor in the stability of the East African region and Africa in general.”
In a message of condolence to President Uhuru Kenyatta, the government and the people of Kenya, President Buhari said: “From a humble beginning (as a school teacher), the late Arap Moi became a politician, a committed democrat, was elected President, upheld the values of democracy and worked for its sustenance throughout his lifetime.”
The President recalled that the longest serving President of the country voluntarily handed over to his successor in 2002 in an election having ruled the country since 1978, a feat that was uncommon at that time.
President Buhari urged Kenyans to uphold the ideals of love, peace, progress, unity and loyalty that the late statesman stood for even as he calls on other African leaders to emulate these virtues.
He prayed that God Almighty will repose his soul and comfort family and friends as they mourn the departed statesman.