In a heartfelt address during a joint requiem mass for the victims of the tragic helicopter crash on February 28 in Mosop, Nandi County, Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya shared a moving memory of her late colleague, Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ng’eno.
The service, held to honor those lost in the accident including the late MP Ng’eno, provided a platform for Tuya to reflect on the MP’s unwavering support and his uncanny “prophecy” about her political future.
Tuya, who currently serves as Kenya’s Defence Cabinet Secretary, recalled a pivotal moment ahead of the 2022 elections when she had set her sights on running for the Narok governorship.
However, Ng’eno, along with political ally Farouk Kibet, approached her with a different vision for her career. “They said, you know we have seen far and we know you are going to become a Cabinet Secretary,” Tuya recounted.
At the time, she admitted to feeling somewhat shortchanged by the suggestion, as it meant stepping aside from her gubernatorial ambitions despite her initial reservations. “He used to call me my governor, even though I knew his stand” she said amidst laughter.
Tuya eventually agreed to step aside from gubernatorial contest paving the way for her appointment to the Cabinet.
The Cabinet Secretary humorously noted how Ng’eno would later jokingly demand “prophecy fees” for his accurate prediction a light-hearted reminder of his confidence in her potential.
Tuya confessed his unwavering support to her political career when she was vying for Narok women representative.
This anecdote highlighted Ng’eno’s role not just as a political figure, but as a mentor and supporter who consistently championed Tuya’s career. She reminisced about how he would affectionately call her “Governor” and warmly invite her to personal events, such as his wife’s baby showers, further cementing their bond.
Tuya also spoke of Ng’eno’s broader influence in her political journey, crediting him with introducing her to key crowds in Narok and helping her gain visibility among the people.
“I used to joyride on Johana Ng’eno’s crowds. He made me known to the Narok people,” she said, underscoring the late MP’s generosity and belief in her abilities.
The requiem mass, attended by dignitaries and mourners alike, served as a somber yet celebratory reflection on Ng’eno’s life and legacy.
Tuya’s tribute painted a picture of a man who was not only a shrewd political strategist but also a loyal friend whose “prophecies” came true.
