Stop cheering leaders’ deaths, MP Junet tells Kenyans

Suna East Member of Parliament Junet Mohamed has condemned Kenyans who rejoice when political leaders face hardship or death, urging them to show empathy instead.

He said it was wrong for people to celebrate online whenever a politician passes away or suffers misfortune.

Speaking at the requiem mass of the late Kasipul MP Charles Ong’ondo Were at Consolata Shrine in Westlands, Nairobi on Wednesday, Junet called on the public to remember that leaders are also human beings with families.

"I want to ask Kenyans who celebrate the death of a leader to stop it. Politicians are also fathers, they are husbands and have families," he stated.

He reminded those who feel dissatisfied with politicians that elections are the proper avenue to express their discontent.

"If you have a problem with a politician, wait for elections and deal with him. Do not celebrate when he has a problem," he said.

Junet expressed concern over the growing trend where some Kenyans use social media to mock the deaths of leaders.

He said no one would want to be treated that way if it were them.

"We have seen time and again people celebrating on social media that a leader has died. Even those celebrating will one day die one day and they will not want people to celebrate their deaths," he added.

The Minority Leader in the National Assembly called on Kenyans to uphold respect for families mourning their loved ones.

"Please respect families of politicians. They are also human beings, let's accord them the necessary support they need when they are grieving," he urged.

He also warned against linking people to baseless accusations and called for restraint in making claims that cannot be proven.

Turning to the murder of the Kasipul MP, Junet pressed the authorities to quicken investigations.

"All those who he was leading want to know why their MP was killed. I would like investigative agencies to give answers so that the family can come to terms with the loss of their loved one," he said.

The late MP was shot dead on April 30 near City Mortuary, Nairobi, by a gunman who escaped on a motorbike.

Police said the attacker had followed the MP’s car from the Nairobi CBD after he had completed his activities at Parliament.

The shooting was confirmed to have been planned in advance.

An autopsy revealed that the MP was hit by five bullets fired at close range, which led to his death.

Junet urged Kenyans to reflect on the seriousness of the incident and show compassion.

"We are not saying this because he is an MP. He is a Kenyan; he is a father and he is a leader who has the aspirations and mandate of over 100,000 people," he said.