Uhuru, Ruto lead Kenyans in mourning benga star John DeMathew

President Uhuru Kenyatta has sent a message of condolence and encouragement to the kin, friends and fans of Kikuyu Benga musician John Ng’ang’a popularly known as John DeMathew who died in a road crash on Sunday night.

In his condolence message, President Kenyatta said DeMathew was a gifted musician who not only used his talent to entertain but also mentor upcoming Kenyan musicians.

“As a nation, we were privileged to have had such a brilliant artiste who played a big role in promoting our African cultural heritage through his music. Indeed, we have lost an icon in the music industry. DeMathew championed and played a big role in preserving our cultural heritage,” President Kenyatta said.

DeMathew was a great composer of Kikuyu lyrics, which carried undertones of societal ills, including alcoholism and promoting peace and cohesion in society.

Deputy President William Ruto also condoled with the family of the fallen benga star and lauded DeMathew’s contribution in society.

“DeMathew was a great composer of Kikuyu lyrics, which carried undertones of societal ills, including alcoholism and promoting peace and cohesion in society,” said

DeMathew’s untimely death hit his fans like a thunderbolt, with Kenyans from all walks of life thronging social media to mourn his passing.