[PHOTOS] Ruto attends burial of Igembe North MP's father

President William Ruto on Saturday joined family, friends, political leaders and residents of Meru County in mourning the death of Mzee Patrick M'Anaiba Baikilanya, the father of Igembe North MP Julius M'anaiba.

The Head of State attended the burial ceremony held in Igembe North Constituency, where he paid his last respects to the deceased and offered condolences to the legislator and his family.

Ruto was received by local leaders and mourners before joining the funeral service, which brought together relatives, members of the public, religious and political leaders to celebrate the life of Mzee Baikilanya.

The death of Mzee Baikilanya was announced earlier by the Igembe North lawmaker, who described his father as a man of integrity, humility and unwavering faith.

"It is with deep sorrow that I announce the passing on of my beloved dad, Mzee Patrick M'Anaiba Baikilanya," the MP said in a statement following his father's death.

"He was a loving father, a pillar of strength and a source of wisdom whose legacy of integrity, humility and faith will forever remain in our hearts."

The legislator thanked Kenyans, friends and well-wishers who had extended messages of comfort and offered prayers to the family following the loss.

"On behalf of the Baikilanya family, I sincerely thank everyone for your prayers and messages of comfort. We thank God for the gift of his life and the legacy he leaves behind," he said.

The funeral drew leaders from across the region, who joined the family in celebrating the life of the deceased and offering support to the MP during the burial.

His family said his legacy of faith, humility and service would continue to inspire future generations.