Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has renewed his call for inclusive leadership, peaceful coexistence and an end to divisive politics, saying the county's strength lies in its diversity as leaders joined the Iteso community to bid farewell to respected elder and former Trans Nzoia Iteso Community Chairman Alfred Moshia Osukuku.

Speaking on Saturday during the funeral service held at Moi Farm in Waitaluk, Natembeya said his administration remains committed to equitable development and continuous engagement with all communities living in the cosmopolitan county.

The Governor urged political leaders to shun tribal politics and work together to strengthen unity, describing Trans Nzoia as "the real face of Kenya."

"Today, I joined the family, friends and the church to celebrate the life of Alfred Moshia Osukuku in Moi Farm, Amagoro," said Natembeya.

He eulogized the late Osukuku as a man of deep faith, integrity, wisdom and selfless service, noting that his contribution to the county's social and economic development would be remembered for generations.

Natembeya said the 76-year-old cultural leader played a critical role in promoting cohesion among communities while preserving Iteso cultural values, challenging other leaders to emulate his example of servant leadership and unity.

Drawing from the homily delivered by the main celebrant, Rev. Fr. Martin Tanui, the Governor challenged leaders to match their words with actions.

He said although Christians believe in eternal life, leaders must stop "preaching water while sipping wine" and instead create conditions that enable citizens to enjoy dignified lives here on earth.

"The true legacy of a leader is not measured by the praise of supporters or the strength of political influence, but by the impact of their decisions and actions on the lives of the people they were entrusted to serve," Natembeya said.

He reminded leaders that positions of authority are a sacred trust and warned that while history may judge people differently, everyone will ultimately be accountable before God.

"May God grant us the wisdom to use every position entrusted to us with justice, sincerity, humility and service to humanity. Rest in peace, Patriarch," he concluded.

The Governor also cautioned Kenyans against leaders promoting tribal bigotry, warning that ethnic incitement threatens the peace and harmony that communities have worked hard to build.

The funeral was attended by His Highness Paul Sande Etomeleng Emolot, the Emorimor (King) of the Iteso, who led members of the Iteso community and the wider Ateker Nation in mourning the revered cultural icon.

Accompanied by members of his cabinet, the Emorimor described Osukuku as a unifying figure whose leadership transcended community boundaries.

He urged mourners to pray for the late elder's soul and reflect on the temporary nature of earthly power.

"May the Almighty God forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him eternal life," the Emorimor said.

He added that Osukuku's passing serves as a reminder that all leaders are called to serve humanity with humility and accountability.

"In the end, what remains is not power, but the record of one's deeds before God Almighty. This is a lesson for every leader: power is temporary, but accountability is eternal. One day everyone will stand before God, where neither titles nor political influence will be of any benefit," he said.

The funeral brought together political leaders, clergy, cultural elders and hundreds of mourners who celebrated the life and legacy of Osukuku, remembered as a champion of peace, unity and cultural preservation in Trans Nzoia County.