Tuju Rejects State Funeral, Requests Burial Within 48 Hours
Former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju has publicly outlined his burial wishes, stating that he should be laid to rest within 48 hours of his death and that no state officials should attend his funeral. His remarks come amid an intensifying legal and property dispute surrounding his Karen estate in Nairobi.
Speaking on Friday at his rural home in Rarieda Sub-County, Tuju said he had made peace with his mortality and was prepared for any outcome as tensions persist over his multimillion-shilling business interests and contested property.
“I have made peace and am ready for anything, including any mental torture that anybody may want to visit on me. Nobody lives forever,” Tuju said.
In an emotional address, the former Rarieda Member of Parliament emphasized that he had already communicated his final wishes to his family, including the timeline and conditions of his burial.
“I have told my people that in the event that I die, I would like to be buried within 48 hours. I do not want any state officer to participate, pretending that they have anything to do with me,” he stated.
“I have shown my family two spots where I can be laid, and it will be up to them to make the decision,” he added.
Tuju also referenced recent high-profile burials in Kenya, citing them as examples of swift interments, while reiterating his preference for a private farewell.
The former Cabinet Secretary’s remarks come against the backdrop of ongoing legal battles and enforcement actions tied to his Karen property. In March, Tuju alleged that police officers from a rapid response unit forcibly entered his residence in the early hours of the morning, removed his private security, and took control of the premises without presenting a court order—claims that sparked widespread public attention.
At the same
According to court proceedings, prosecutors allege that Tuju reported being trailed and abducted by unknown individuals—claims they argue were false and intended to prompt police action. The case is ongoing, with both the prosecution and defence expected to present further arguments in subsequent hearings.
Reflecting on his personal journey, Tuju spoke about past experiences, including a serious road accident and other challenges, noting that these had shaped his outlook on life and death.
“Despite everything I have gone through, I remain spiritually anchored and at peace,” he said.
Political observers say Tuju’s latest statements signal both personal reflection and frustration with the ongoing disputes surrounding his affairs. His insistence on excluding state officials from his funeral has also drawn attention, given his long career in public service, which included senior roles in government.
The unfolding developments highlight the intersection of personal, legal, and political issues facing the former Cabinet Secretary, with his Karen property dispute continuing to attract public and legal scrutiny.
As court proceedings continue and tensions around his business interests persist, Tuju’s remarks have added a deeply personal dimension to an already complex situation.
For now, attention remains on both the legal process and the broader implications of the dispute, even as Tuju maintains that he has prepared for all eventualities and remains resolute in his stated wishes.
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Tuju Rejects State Funeral, Requests Burial Within 48 Hours
