Ruto: Kimani Ichung’wah has taken many bullets on my behalf
President William Ruto has hailed National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah as a loyal ally and true brother, declaring that he has carried burdens that even his own siblings could not shoulder.
Speaking during the burial of Ichung’wah’s father, Isaac Ngugi, in Gikambura, Kiambu County, on Monday, September 15, 2025, the Head of State said the legislator had consistently proven his loyalty and commitment, not only to him personally but also to the broader national cause.
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“This man Kimani Ichung’wah, I call him Anthony, he has taken many bullets on my behalf. He has carried huge burdens on my behalf, burdens that even my own brothers could not carry, but this man has carried them,” Ruto said.
Ruto noted that Ichung’wah had endured immense political pressure and challenges, which he described as bullets taken on his behalf.
He added that the legislator’s sacrifices were a true reflection of leadership, as he had stood up to be counted when it mattered most.
“And this is what leadership means, that you must stand up to be counted for something. He is not just a friend but a friend indeed,” he said.
The President emphasised that his bond with Ichung’wah went beyond politics, describing him as both a friend and a brother. He pledged before the family and mourners that just as the MP had stood firmly by his side, he too would always stand by him.
“My friend Kimani, on this day when we are putting to rest your father, I want to say thank you so much for not just being a friend but also a brother to me. And the same way you have stood with me, my brother, I want to say this in front of your family:I will also stand with you,” Ruto added.
Ruto further told mourners that Ichung’wah was not only a leader of Kikuyu Constituency or Kiambu County but a national figure who epitomised the qualities of service and resilience.
He attributed these traits to the upbringing and values instilled by his father, who was being laid to rest.
“To the people of Kikuyu constituency and to the people of Kiambu, this leader of yours, Ichung’wah, is a leader of Kenya, not yours alone. And this is what leadership means, that you must stand up to be counted for something. He is not just a friend but a friend indeed. He gives us lessons and we are sure his lessons come from Mzee, who we are laying to rest today here.”
Ichung’wah appeared visibly emotional as the President delivered the glowing tribute, acknowledging his steadfastness and lessons of leadership.
The burial service drew a host of leaders, including Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, and Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo, alongside several political figures who joined in consoling the family.
Isaac Ngugi, who passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, September 4, was aged 105.
In a eulogy read during the ceremony, he was remembered as a man of discipline, resilience and strong faith, qualities that shaped his family and inspired those who knew him.
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Steve Ireri
Steve is a senior writer with over four years of experience in digital journalism. His focus is on the showbiz and human interest stories. Emails: [email protected] , [email protected]
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