‘A Zealous And Independent-Minded Man’: DP Gachagua, Mudavadi Mourn Prof. George Magoha

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has joined other leaders in eulogizing former Education Cabinet Secretary Prof George Magoha following his death on Tuesday evening.

The deputy president, in a statement, said Magoha would be remembered for his “independence of mind and fearlessness” in the professional field where he served in various roles among them as Cabinet Secretary for Education.

“I have learnt of the demise of Prof. George Magoha with great shock. Known for his independence of mind and fearlessness, Prof. Magoha was an accomplished professional who served Kenya with zeal as witnessed when he served as the CS for Education and other posts held earlier,” DP Gachagua wrote.

DP Gachagua said he personally looked up to the professor for his boldness.

“In his field of Medicine, Prof Magoha has made immense contributions to the practice of medicine and research. In the education sector, he left an indelible mark at  @uonbi – rising through the ranks to become VC, at the  @ExamsCouncil as Chairperson, and as CS for Education,” Gachagua stated.

“I will miss Prof Magoha, a man I personally admired for his forthrightness and ethics. My thoughts are with the family, friends, and colleagues of Prof Magoha. May Prof Magoha rest well.”

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi echoed Gachagua’s sentiments emphasizing Magoha’s unique ‘single-mindedness’ during all his undertakings.

“I have received the death of Prof. George Magoha, with utter surprise and shock. The late Prof. Magoha will be remembered as a staunch believer in self-actualization,” Mudavadi noted.

“He took to his tasks with gusto and a single-minded determination that’s rare. Many will recall his iron-clad grip on the University of Nairobi as Vice-chancellor, and lately as Cabinet Secretary for Education. God rest his soul in eternal peace.”

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka also expressed his disbelief at the death of Magoha as he commended his dedication to service.

Kalonzo said: “The news of the untimely passing of Prof. George Magoha has left all of us in shock. He epitomised the necessity of focus, hard work & diligence. He was an exceptional leader who will be greatly missed. I send my sincere condolences to Prof Magoha’s family, friends & colleagues.”

The 71-year-old full professor of surgery passed away at Nairobi Hospital after a short illness.