Deputy President William Ruto on Tuesday attended the funeral service of the late Peter Linturi, father to Meru Senator Mithika Linturi, at Igembe South in Meru County.
The DP eulogised the deceased as a hardworking individual who empowered residents of the county through his exemplary activities.
“Mzee Linturi was an industrious, successful farmer. He was a God-fearing, amiable and respected elder.
He was a selfless leader and helped establish, strengthen the SACCO movement in the larger Meru, which has empowered the community,” said the DP.
DP Ruto also lauded the late for being a responsible parent who loved his children and ensured that they became responsible leaders in the country.
“Mzee Peter Gichunge Linturi was a dependable, caring, loving husband and father, who ingrained hard work, friendship and honesty in his children” added the DP.
The DP was accompanied by Senate Speaker Ken Lusaka, Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi, his Tharaka-Nithi counterpart Muthomi Njuki, Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot among others.
The Senator’s father died on September 2 and the course of his death yet to be made public.
His death halted the progress of a divorce case pitting Senator Linturi and his estranged wife Merianne Kitany.
Kitany’s lawyer, Danston Omari, sought an adjournment to allow for his client to mourn and attend the burial of his father-in-law.
“We are not ready to proceed reason being that the petitioner lost her father-in-law. My client is in a mourning mood and is set to go to Meru for burial,” said Omari.
Linturi, however, through his lawyer Muthomi Thiankolu wanted the case to continue.
“The petitioner cannot cry more than the respondent. Unfortunate as this may be, we should proceed. There are several properties that have been frozen,” said Muthomi.
Muthomi claimed the death may have been caused by the shock from the divorce case involving his son and Kitany.
On Monday, Kitany’s lawyer said they, will attend the funeral to pay their last respect.
However, it is not yet confirmed whether Kitany attended the funeral.