President Ruto, leaders mourn Khalwale’s wife after sudden death

President William Ruto has led Kenyans in mourning the death of Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale’s wife, Gloria Sekeiyan Khalwale, who died on Saturday morning following a sudden heart attack.

Khalwale announced his wife’s death in a post on his official X account, saying she had suddenly collapsed and died.

“My dear wife, Gloria Sekeiyan Khalwale, has this morning suddenly collapsed and died after a heart attack,” the senator said.

Following the announcement, leaders across the political divide sent messages of condolence to Khalwale and his family.

Ruto, in a message posted on X on Saturday, said he and First Lady Rachel Ruto stood with the family during the difficult period.

“Mama Rachel and I extend our heartfelt condolences to Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale following the passing of his beloved wife, Gloria Sekeiyan. We stand with Senator Khalwale and his family in this moment of immense grief,” Ruto said.

“The loss of a spouse, companion and mother leaves a deep void, and we pray that God grants the family strength, comfort and peace as they mourn and cherish her memory."

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi also mourned Gloria, describing her death as sudden and untimely.

“The loss of a loved one leaves a space that words can never truly fill...During this deeply difficult time, I pray that God grants the family strength, comfort and courage, and that the memories they shared with a cherished wife, mother and friend bring them solace in the days ahead. May the Almighty God receive Mama Gloria into His eternal embrace and grant her soul everlasting rest,” Mudavadi said.

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka comforted Khalwale, describing the Senator as his dear friend and noting Gloria’s role as a wife and mother of eight.

“My dear friend, Senator Boni Khalwale, I was deeply saddened to learn of Gloria's sudden passing this morning. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this deeply painful time. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your children as you grieve the loss of Gloria,” Kalonzo said.

“She was your wife, the mother of your eight children, and your partner through many years of life. I can only imagine the emptiness her passing has left in your family, and I pray that God gives you all the strength and comfort to carry you through this difficult time."

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya also condoled with Khalwale.

Sifuna wrote, “Omwami @DrBKhalwale pole sana for your loss. May God comfort you and your family in this difficult time. Khulialala Omwami. May her soul rest in peace."

“It is with deep sorrow that I learnt of the passing of the beloved wife of Kakamega Senator Hon. @DrBKhalwale. On behalf of the people of Trans Nzoia County, my family, and on my own behalf, I extend my deepest and heartfelt condolences to Hon. Dr. Khalwale, the children, the entire Khalwale family, relatives, and friends during this difficult time of mourning,” Natembeya added.

Gloria was a mother of eight children: Engine Kukaste Khalwale, Olivia Sabayi Khalwale, Flavia Shimuli Khalwale, Gift Atubukha Khalwale, Meliza Khamwenyi Khalwale, Velma Nasiebanda Khalwale, Sonia Inuni Khalwale and Maura Makatse Khalwale.