This archive report was first published on 29 July 2019.
Kenya Mourns Bomet Governor Joyce Laboso ¶
President Uhuru Kenyatta has led the country in mourning the death of Bomet Governor Joyce Laboso, who lost her fight to cancer on July 29, 2019, at Nairobi Hospital.
Laboso's death sent shock waves across the country, with many leaders and citizens expressing their condolences.
Uhuru described Laboso as an icon of women leadership, saying he was yet to come to terms with the sad news.
"I have received the sad news of the passing away of Bomet Governor Joyce Laboso with utter disbelief. Laboso was an icon of women leadership in our country. May God grant the family, residents of Bomet and all Kenyans the fortitude to bear the big loss," Uhuru said in a statement.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga, who spoke at Lee Funeral Home where Laboso's body is being preserved, said the Bomet County boss was a fighter and her death had dealt a blow to the entire country.
"A strong fighter for justice and freedom, she has been firm since joining the world of politics. It’s a tragic death. She has again fallen victim of cancer. This week alone we have lost about five people. Ten days ago when I went to see her at ICU, she was in pain. It is a big blow to the people of Bomet and the nation at large. At this moment we all stand in solidarity with the family of Bonyo. The entire nation of Kenya is in mourning," stated Raila.
Deputy President William Ruto described the governor as one who loved peace, impartial, and a leader who was keen at uplifting women in society.
"As MP and, then, Bomet Governor, Laboso carved a path of women's advancement and was at the forefront of championing peace and harmonious relationships among all communities. During her stint as Deputy Speaker, she moderated parliamentary debate with impartiality and shrewdness," Ruto wrote on Twitter.
Many Kenyans took to social media to express their condolences, with leaders from across the country paying tribute to Laboso's legacy.
