Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has spoken publicly for the first time about his personal health challenges, offering a rare glimpse into what he called “the realities of life” during the funeral of his longtime friend, Frank Ireri, who died after battling cancer.
Speaking on Friday, October 31, Kenyatta described Ireri as a pillar of strength and compassion, revealing that they had shared difficult moments as both faced health struggles.
“I do not know whether I should say this,” he began softly, “but these are the realities of life. For the better part of last year and this year, he was very encouraging about the challenges we were going through. Since he had more experience than us, he guided and told us how to handle such issues.”
The former president’s remarks, made during an emotional service attended by close friends and family, appeared to confirm months of public speculation about his health. While Kenyatta stopped short of naming any specific illness, his comments hinted that he, too, has been on a private medical journey.
He described Ireri as a man of deep faith and resilience, saying, “I will miss that counsel and appreciate how he really held our hand, telling us not to worry — that all this will come to pass.”
Kenyatta went on to reflect on mortality, expressing gratitude for the time shared with his friend. “The reason Frank is lying here is because it is his time,” he said. “Those of us with these challenges will continue fighting, but when God’s time comes, we shall join him and be thankful for the life we lived.”
Rumours about Kenyatta’s health first surfaced early this year following a series of cancelled public appearances and a noticeably slimmer frame. His rare outings — including one where he appeared with a bald head — fuelled speculation that he was undergoing treatment. Supporters, however, dismissed the claims as unfounded. Jubilee Party official Pauline Njoroge once described the reports as “fictional and ill-intentioned.”
In recent months, Kenyatta has returned to a more active public life, leading party meetings and attending official engagements abroad. At a recent National Delegates Conference, he appeared energetic and confident, assuring supporters that “the work continues.”
Frank Ireri, remembered for his humility and quiet strength, was a respected banker and businessman who mentored many, including the former president. His funeral became both a celebration of friendship and a moment of public reflection for a leader long known for keeping his personal life private.
“Former President Uhuru Kenyatta opens up about his health struggles while mourning close friend Frank Ireri, saying, ‘These are the realities of life.’ A heartfelt tribute that moved many. 💔🇰🇪 #UhuruKenyatta #FrankIreri #KenyaNews #Leadership #CancerAwareness”
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