Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has paid an emotional tribute to his high school teacher.
The DP described Mwalimu Julius Kano Ndumbi as a disciplinarian who made him the great leader he is today.
Gachagua said Mwalimu Ndumbi was a gifted teacher who moulded, mentored and prepared them at Kianyaga Boys High School for the future.
The DP emotionally recounted how Mwalimu Ndumbi together with other teachers left a legacy to their class.
"As we lay him to rest today at Gichugu, Kirinyaga County, we celebrate a gentle giant, who wanted and delivered nothing but the best out of his students. His impact, together with his gallant team of teachers, remains a legacy in many sectors," the DP added.
He thanked his teacher for making him a great leader through his strict disciplinary nature.
"That is why laying him to rest was not only a painful moment for me but also a time of reflection. I thank Mwalimu Kano Ndumbi," Gachagua said.
The DP condoled with his family, friends and former classmates saying they would share in his memories.
"We pray that the Almighty God rests the soul of Mwalimu in Peace; may perpetual light shine upon him forever."
The DP said that he was in prayer, fasting and meditation at Mount Kenya forest when he received the news of the demise of his high school teacher.
"I had taken seven days away for prayers, fasting, meditation, and no phones and nobody could disturb me. I had to meditate for the state of the nation and welfare of this region," Gachagua said.
According to the DP, his wife Pastor Dorcas Rigathi sent the message of demise to him despite his early warning of no destruction while in the mountain.
Gachagua said that Pastor Dorcas understood the nature of their great friendship.
This, he said, forced him to cut short his prayer and fasting at the mountain, and hurried home to mourn Mwalimu Ndumbi.
Gachagua surfaced in public on Sunday after a week of silence.
His whereabouts had raised questions.