President Uhuru (right) Kenyatta DP William Ruto (center) and opposition leader Raila Odinga (left). [Photo/Daily Nation]
President Uhuru Kenyatta, his Deputy William Ruto, and opposition leader Raila Odinga have expressed their sorrow following the demise of Eldoret Catholic Bishop Cornelius Korir.Korir died Monday morning at his home after complaining of chest pains.Uhuru noted that the late bishop championed for peace."I join the Catholic Church in mourning a great religious leader whose exemplary service calls for emulation by others," said Uhuru in a Twitter post.He added, "In this hour of sorrow I convey my deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to the Catholic church & the family of the late Bishop Korir. Bishop Korir’s work for peace and understanding between Kenyans of different faiths deserves the warmest commendation."DP Ruto also through Twitter said that Korir was an icon of peace."Heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and the Church following the passing on of Bishop Cornelius Korir," Ruto said."An icon of peace, Bishop Korir dedicated his life to preaching peaceful coexistence and harmonious relationships among communities," he added."Bishop Korir was an adored, respected and revered church elder whose wise counsel was sought by his flock and the country at large," said Ruto.
In a statement from Raila and his wife Ida Odinga, they described Korir as a reflective of the voice of the Catholic Church in Kenya.
"As bishop of the Eldoret Diocese, Bishop Korir has been one of our nation's leading moral lights and voices of reason, who also did outstanding work with many communities, and through such service touched the lives of countless Kenyans," Raila and Ida said.
"We will forever appreciate that within the Diocese of Eldoret, Bishop Korir promoted both spiritual empowerment and economic development through his numerous community organizations and charitable efforts," they added.