Dr David Silverstein, Moi's personal physician for decades, dies at 82

News of his death was shared on Sunday by KANU National Chairman Gideon Moi, who paid tribute to the doctor for the care he gave his father.

"He took time to listen, understand and care, bringing warmth to his practice of medicine. This was the same humanity and compassion he extended to everyone under his care," Moi said.

Silverstein first met Moi at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) in 1977, when the latter was serving as vice president. He was appointed the president's personal physician in 1983 and held the position for several decades.

Born in Chicago, Silverstein arrived in Kenya in 1974 after completing his medical training in the United States.

He joined the University of Nairobi Medical School, where he helped establish and run an early cardiac catheterisation laboratory at KNH.

He went on to head the hospital's cardiology unit and taught generations of medical students.

In 1977, he was appointed chief cardiothoracic physician for the Government of Kenya. He later moved to The Nairobi Hospital, where he continued practising medicine and became widely recognised for his contribution to cardiology in Kenya.

Beyond his work with Moi, Silverstein also treated other prominent figures, including former South African President Nelson Mandela.

He is survived by his wife, Channa Commanday, and their four sons. The cause and exact date of his death have not been publicly disclosed.