The nation recently gathered for a joint requiem mass for the victims of the tragic February 28 helicopter crash in Mosop, Nandi County, which claimed the lives of Emurua Dikir MP Johana Ng’eno, pilot George Were, Wycliffe Ronoh, Robert Keter, Nicholas Koskei, and Amos Rotich. The event served as a somber occasion for leaders and citizens alike to mourn and reflect on the legacy of the late legislator and his companions.

Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya shared a poignant memory during the mass, recalling how Ng’eno had jokingly demanded “prophecy fees” after predicting her future ascent to the Cabinet. This prediction came ahead of the 2022 elections when Tuya had initially planned to run for Narok governor but was persuaded by Ng’eno and President William Ruto’s aide Farouk Kibet to step aside in favor of Patrick Ole Ntutu. Tuya, who was first elected to the National Assembly alongside Ng’eno in 2013, remembered his consistent support throughout her political journey.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki described the deaths as a profound national loss, pledging government support to the affected families, including an offer of employment as a teacher for one of Robert Keter’s relatives. Kindiki highlighted his close bond with Ng’eno despite political differences, describing the MP as a visionary leader who was often underestimated.

Eulogies from parliamentary leaders painted a comprehensive picture of Ng’eno's dedication. Senate Speaker Amason Kingi led the House in eulogising Ng’eno as a leader deeply committed to serving his constituents. Kingi emphasized Ng’eno’s efforts beyond Parliament, particularly in Emurua Dikirr, where he championed education by facilitating school buses and timely NG-CDF bursaries. He was also instrumental in promoting peace, mediating inter-community conflicts, and supporting vulnerable families, earning him the affection of area residents. Ng'eno's passion for African culture was evident through his promotion of cultural activities and local talent, notably as the Patron of the Kalenjin Music Festival.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, who had known Ng’eno since 2006, recounted supporting his early political ambitions and paid tribute to the diligent and professional pilot, George Were. Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot likened Ng’eno to Emurua Dikirr’s “Nelson Mandela,” acknowledging his fight for the constituency's creation. Senators Enoch Wambua, Daniel Maanzo, Ledama ole Kina, Veronica Maina, and Godfrey Osotsi further highlighted Ng’eno’s qualities, remembering him as an embodiment of representation, a caring leader elected thrice, a unifier of communities, an indefatigable defender of the vulnerable, and someone who spoke his mind for the less fortunate.

The tragic helicopter crash occurred as Ng’eno was returning from Endebbes, where he had graced the 35th anniversary celebration of local artist Kim Kim’s music. The accident has prompted calls for thorough investigations into aircraft crashes and the implementation of policies preventing flights in adverse weather conditions, a sentiment echoed by Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot and Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua, who emphasized the need to determine if aircraft quality or pilot training were factors. Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei lauded the heroic efforts of a student nurse and local residents who tried to save lives and prevent the bodies from being burnt beyond recognition. The tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of life's brevity, urging leaders to prioritize public service over personal gain, as articulated by Narok Senator Ledama ole Kina.