Kisii County Governor James Ongwae has said that the legend athlete Nyantika Mayioro was a great man who has left a legacy.
Ongwae while speaking on Wednesday when he hosted Mayioro's family and the burial organizing committee challenged residents to embrace Mayioro.
"Mr Mayioro was a great man because he was running barefooted. He beat all odds to beat those who were competing with him wearing shoes," said Ongwae.
He assured that the county will honor Nyantika since he was an icon in athletics from Kisii county.
Ongwae dismissed claims that his administration ignored Nyantika while he was in hospital.
"We will work closely with the bereaved family for the purpose of giving Nyantika a good send-off," noted Ongwae.
The county boss confirmed that his government is liaising with the national government to honor the athletics hero.
"I will not disclose who we have spoken to at the national government level in the burial plans of Nyantika. All we need is to comfort the family during this cold times they are mourning the death of their loved one," added Ongwae.