Nakuru Senatorial Aspirant Dr Peter Mbae has joined Kenyans in mourning departed Rift valley Council of Elders Chairman Gilbert Kabage.

Mbae has termed the deceased as a hero, mentor and great leader.

‘I take this earliest opportunity to send my deepest condolences to the family of our departed hero, mentor and leader, Gilbert Kabage, who rested this morning in a Nakuru hospital, aged 89,” he stated.

According to Mbae who is also an expert in matters peace and conflict Resolution, Mr. Kabage was widely known as the long serving chairman of Rift Valley Council of Elders through which he advocated for peaceful coexistence among communities living in the Rift Valley.

He recalled that he once worked with the deceased elder after the 2007/8 post election violence.

Mbae added that Mr. Kabage has also been a national trustee of the Baptist Churches of Kenya, besides being a successful entrepreneur with a chain of businesses among them PATA commercial.

“He was a valued Church and community leader in his home area of Kabazi, Subukia Sub-county where he contributed immensely to many education, health and socio economic initiatives,” stated Mbae.