For once, President Uhuru Kenyatta left mouners at Holly Family Basilica in stitches when he described Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i as 'Mtu ya Sura kali' loosely translating to 'someone with frowned face'.
In his 15 minutes speech, Uhuru praised Nyamira County as the home of 'dedicated fellows' picking Mr. Matiang'i as the the example in his administration.
"Nyamira is a blessed region with dedicated souls who are ready to deliver. You can even see huyu mtu wa sura kali. Once you trust them, you will just sit pretty and wait for something to happen," he said as mourners burst into laughter.
He added: "Only few cannot remember Henry Obwocha's role in revamping the economy of this nation. We lost a real patriot and performer from Nyamira. It is a sad moment for the entire country."
With Obwocha becoming the first person from Nyamira to hold a full ministerial position, Matiang'i, despite having roots in Kisii County, was also born in the region.
Throughout his spells in Lands, ICT, Education and now at the Interior Ministry, he has always left a mark that has seen him loved and hated almost to an equal measure.
The affirmation from the president could be a reprieve to Matiang'i, who has been embroiled in various scams such as the controversial selling of Sh3.2 Ruaraka land which had put his job in stake.
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