By Robert Mutasi 
Thousands of residents from Uasin Gishu County gathered in Eldoret City on the evening of Wednesday March 4, 2026, for an emotional candlelight vigil in memory of Emurua Dikir Member of Parliament Johanna Ng’eno.
The vigil, held outside Silver Line Hotel in Eldoret, drew a massive crowd of mourners from across the county and the wider Rift Valley region. Residents, leaders, and supporters came together to honor the late legislator whose life was tragically cut short in a helicopter crash.
Photos from the scene showed hundreds of mourners holding candles high in the air, creating a glowing sea of light in the heart of Eldoret. Many stood quietly as they reflected on the life and leadership of Johanna Ng’eno. Others were seen wiping away tears as the community processed the painful loss.
Despite political differences that often define the region, the vigil became a powerful symbol of unity. People from different political affiliations stood side by side, sharing grief and paying tribute to a leader many described as a brother, friend, and voice of the people.
As darkness fell, the candles illuminated the surrounding streets, turning the area around Silver Line Hotel into a moving display of solidarity. The large crowd filled nearby roads as more residents continued arriving to participate in the tribute.
Meanwhile, officials at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital confirmed that the bodies recovered from the crash were severely burned and could not be visually identified. Hospital Chief Executive Officer Dr Philip Kirwa said forensic procedures would have to be completed before families could view the remains.
Leaders who visited the crash site described the incident as devastating. Governor Jonathan Bii said preliminary reports suggest the helicopter struck two trees shortly after takeoff, possibly due to poor weather conditions.
Investigations into the helicopter crash that claimed the life of Johanna Ng’eno are currently underway as the nation continues to mourn the loss of the outspoken legislator.
Close-up of candle-bearing mourners’ emotional faces at Silver Line Hotel.
Eldoret Leo