Kenya: Former President Moi dies February 4

Event

Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta announced on Tuesday, February 4, that former President Danial arap Moi has died at the age of 95. According to officials, Moi died peacefully around 05:20 (local time) at a hospital in Nairobi. Further details have not been released as of Tuesday morning. Moi’s body has reportedly been transferred to a funeral home and soldiers have deployed into the area. A heightened police presence has also been reported around the hospital where Moi was receiving care.

President Kenyatta has declared a period of national mourning, with flags being flown at half-mast, until Moi’s state funeral. While the exact time and details of Moi’s funeral have not yet been released, commemorative events may be held in Nairobi and other cities over the coming hours and days. A heightened police presence and localized disruptions are anticipated near any associated events.

Context

Moi came into power in 1978 following the death of President Jomo Kenyatta. He was president until 2002, when he was constitutionally barred from running for another term.

Advice

Individuals in Kenya, particularly in Nairobi, are advised to keep abreast of the situation, respect local customs, refrain from discussing political topics in public or on social media, anticipate heightened security measures and transportation disruptions near associated events, and avoid public gatherings as a precaution.