Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho was amongst the mourners that participated in the celebration of the life of the late veteran politician Kenneth Matiba in Kiharu Stadium, Murang'a County.
"The people of Murang'a have given us a son this nation is very proud of," said Joho on Thursday.
He noted that Matiba was instrumental in the 2nd liberation of this country.
"The price he paid for this agitation came at a great personal cost but with great national benefit for this country. His life is a lesson in selflessness and patriotism," said the ODM Deputy Party Leader, who joined his party leader former premier Raila Odinga, Siaya senator James Orengo, Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o, Jimi Wanjigi among others at the funeral service.
Joho acknowledged Matiba's role in the fight to democracy in the country, terming him a stellar example of what one mans courage can do for a country.
"To Kenneth Matiba, this is not goodbye, for heroes never die. May God keep you in eternal peace," said the Mombasa Governor.
Kenneth Ngindo Stanley Matiba died aged 83 after a long illness at a Nairobi Hospital. His body would be cremated.