GSU Recce officer who died in Kapenguria was newly wed
Fallen GSU Recce commando officer Denis Momanyi.
IN SUMMARY
Denis Momanyi's parents, Christopher and Josephine Momanyi, were still reeling in shock following their son’s death.They both recounted good memories of the Recce officer, saying they had lost a hardworking son.The mother said her son was the family’s sole breadwinner and his death had left a gap too big to be filled.
The elite GSU Recce commando officer who died Wednesday battling a rogue Kapenguria police officer was still on his honeymoon, having been married only a month ago.
The staunch Seventh-day Adventist had come home to wed the flower of his heart, Edina Morangi, and was due to visit again when death came calling while he was on duty.
On Friday, family members and relatives said Denis Momanyi, 26, was a hardworking officer who had left them too early.
It was all gloom at Igucha, West Mugirango constituency, in Nyamira County, the countryside home of the fallen officer when theNation paid a visit.
Mr Momanyi's parents, Christopher and Josephine Momanyi, were still reeling in shock following their son’s death.
They both recounted good memories of the Recce officer, saying they had lost a hardworking son.
The mother said her son was the family’s sole breadwinner and his death had left a gap too big to be filled.
"The news of his death came to us from one of my sons. I was watching the news as police laid siege at the police station, but little did I know my son was among the rescue team.
"All the while I was praying that the attacker will be seized before he killed more officers,” she said.
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The corporal’s father said his son had big plans for the family.
He reminisced that during his last visit home he planted many trees, a testimony of his hardworking spirit.
"My son was hardworking, loving and always joyful. He always wanted the best from his siblings and he always encouraged them to work hard," he said.
PROMISE TO PAY FEES
He had promised to pay fees for his youngest sibling at the University of Nairobi for a self-sponsored programme.
Vincent Momanyi, his elder brother who broke the disturbing news, said his mother was dumbstruck upon hearing the news.
She only spoke when the Nation visited.
Area Ward Rep Beuttah Omanga appealed to the government to consider giving one son a chance to serve in the service.
He further urged swift compensation for families who lose loved ones in the fight against Shabaab militants.
“We have seen many of our countrymen die in selfless devotion to protect our country yet delays in compensating them put the families in bad financial dilemmas,” said Mr Omanga.
