Senator Mandago Expresses Heartfelt Gratitude to Leaders, Friends and Kenyans Who Stood with His Family During the Burial of His Mother

 

Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago has expressed profound gratitude to leaders, friends and Kenyans from across the country who stood in solidarity with his family during the burial of his mother, the late Esther Tapsiarga Lelei.

Mama Esther, affectionately known as Gogo, was laid to rest at Sigen Farm in Kuinet, Uasin Gishu County, in a solemn and dignified ceremony marked by prayer, tribute and thanksgiving for a life well lived. She passed away at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of faith, resilience, humility and unwavering commitment to family and community.

In his message of appreciation, Senator Mandago thanked God for blessing his mother with a long and fruitful life spanning nine decades. He described her as the pillar of the family, a woman of deep faith whose guidance and prayers shaped generations.

“We do not take it for granted that God granted our mother 92 years. That was a great blessing to our family. Her life was a testimony of strength, sacrifice and love,” said the Senator. “As a family, we remain deeply grateful for the time we shared with her and for the values she instilled in us.”

 

The burial ceremony drew a large gathering of national and county leaders, reflecting the wide network of relationships the family has built over the years. Senator Mandago conveyed special appreciation to His Excellency President William Samoei Ruto for his support, prayers and solidarity during the difficult period of mourning.

He further acknowledged the comfort extended through phone calls, condolence messages, visits and prayers from Kenyans across the country. According to the Senator, the overwhelming show of unity and compassion gave the family strength and encouragement as they navigated their loss.

Among the dignitaries present were Senate Speaker Rt. Hon. Amason Kingi and National Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. Moses Wetang’ula. Governors H.E. Jonathan Bii (Uasin Gishu) and H.E. Wisley Rotich (Elgeyo Marakwet) attended the ceremony, alongside Nandi Deputy Governor H.E. Yulita Cheruiyot.

 

Several Senators also joined the family in paying their last respects, including Hon. Ledama Ole Kina (Narok), Hon. David Wakoli (Bungoma), Hon. Wahome Wamatinga (Nyeri), Hon. Okong’o Omogeni (Nyamira), Hon. Joyce Korir (Nominated), Hon. Hamida Kibwana (Nominated), Hon. Consolata Wakwabubi and Hon. Prof. Margaret Kamar (Nominated).

Members of the National Assembly who attended included Hon. Didmus Baraza (Kimilili), Hon. Johana Ng’eno (Emurua Dikirr), Hon. Joseph Cherorot (Kipkelion East), Hon. Beatrice Elachi (Dagoretti North), Hon. Dick Maungu (Luanda), Hon. Brighton Yegon (Konoin), Hon. Kangogo Bowen (Marakwet East), Hon. Tim Kipchumba (Marakwet West), Hon. CPA Julius Rutto (Kesses), Hon. David Kiplagat (Soy), Hon. Abraham Mutai (Kuresoi North), Hon. Gideon Kimaiyo (Keiyo South), Hon. Janet Rotich (Turbo), Hon. Bernard Kitur (Nandi Hills), Hon. Phyllis Bartoo (Moiben), Hon. Joses Lelmengit (Emgwen), Hon. Beatrice Kemei (Kericho) and Hon. Bishop Kosgei (Nominated). A delegation from Uganda was also present, underscoring the regional bonds of friendship and cooperation.

The ceremony was further attended by Principal Secretaries Prof. Julius Bitok (Education) and Mary Muthoni (Public Health). Also present were chairpersons Caleb Kositany (Kenya Airports Authority), Amani Yuda (Kenya Pipeline Staff Pension Scheme), Joseph Lagat (Kenya Wildlife Service), Jackson Kiptanui (ODP), former Kericho Governor Stanley Kiptis, former Cabinet Secretary Farida Karoney and businessman David Lagat, among other leaders and stakeholders.

 

Speakers at the ceremony eulogized Mama Esther as a devout Christian, a hardworking matriarch and a unifying figure whose wisdom and counsel were deeply valued. Family members described her as a nurturing mother and grandmother whose home was always open to relatives, neighbors and friends.

Senator Mandago concluded by reiterating his family’s appreciation to everyone who stood with them, whether in person or in spirit.

“We are deeply humbled by the presence, support and solidarity shown to us during this time. Your prayers and encouragement have carried us through. May God bless each one of you abundantly,” he said.

Mama Esther’s passing marks the end of an era for the family, but her legacy of faith, love and service will continue to inspire generations to come.