BY ALBERT NYAKUNDI
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni of Uganda has mourned former president Daniel arap Moi as a patriot, God fearing and a forgiving individual.
Museveni said it was patriotic of Moi for agreeing to abandon his own party, Kenya African Democratic Union (KADU) in 1964 to join Kenya African National Union (KANU).
This Museveni said ensured Kenya remained peaceful.
“Death is inevitable, what matters is what you will be remembered for. Pontius Pilate will be remembered for the death of Jesus.” Museveni told Mourners on Tuesday at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi during a prayer service to mourn Moi.
Regional dignitaries who attended the ceremony included Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame,Tanzania’s former president Benjamin Mkapa and Jakaya Kiwkete.
Sahle-Work Zewde President of the Federal Republic of Ethiopia as well as Salva Kiir of South Sudan among others.
The Ugandan strong man recalled how after he took power “troublemakers” lied to Moi that Uganda was about to start a war with Kenya- a claim that threated peaceful coexistence between the two nations.
Museveni said Moi as a result closed all entry points from Uganda to Kenya.
“Troublemakers lied to Moi that we are not good people. I met Moi in Teso, Western Kenya at Amagoro Primary School and we reconciled.” Said Museveni.
He revealed that Moi requested him to show him the African Inland Church in Arua, Northern Uganda.
Museveni said Moi was passionate about reviving the East Africa Community which collapsed in 1977 before Moi came into power.
“He loved East Africa not just politically but emotionally. I saw the three qualities of Mzee Moi for myself. I did not hear. Nobody told me.” Museveni said and asked Kenyans to emulate Moi’s good qualities.
Moi will be buried tomorrow in his home at Kabarak,Baringo county.
At least Kshs 300 million will be spent on the State funeral.