Former General Jackson Mulinge dies at 91
Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka (left), former Chief of Staff Gen Jackson Mulinge (centre) and Mr Daniel Yumbya during a visit to Kathiani, Machakos County. Photo | FILE
Jackson Kimeu Mulinge, who once served as Kenya's Chief of General Staff, has died.
Rtd Gen Mulinge was the longest serving head of the Kenya Armed Forces and also served as Minister for Lands and Health.
His 44-year tenure was under former Presidents Jomo Kenyatta and Daniel Moi.
As Chief of General Staff, he helped quash the 1982 coup that tried to overthrow the then President Moi.
Gen Jackson Mulinge. Photo | FILE
President Uhuru Kenyatta described him as "a great soldier who led a life of honour, service and patriotism."
In a statement to newsrooms on Tuesday, former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka said:
"His (Mulinge's) exemplary leadership qualities were evident during his distinguished career at the helm of our Defence forces and also at the political level, as a minister.
"His passing on is a big blow not only to his family, but to the whole country."
