Kisumu, December 6, 2024 – Kisumu County bid a solemn farewell to Mwalimu Charles Babu Karan, the Chairperson of the Kisumu County Public Service Board, in a heartfelt burial service held at his home in Nyahera, Kisumu West Sub-County. Karan, who passed away while on official duty in Mombasa, was eulogized as a man of integrity, dignity, and selfless service.
Kisumu Governor Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o led tributes to the late Karan, highlighting his unwavering dedication and honesty.
“We have lost a great leader and advisor. Babu Karan served with dignity, never demanding more or taking bribes in exchange for jobs. He was my chief adviser throughout my political journey, starting from my time as MP for Kisumu Rural, as Senator, and now as Governor,” Nyong’o said.
Urging county staff to emulate Karan’s example, Nyong’o lamented the pervasive culture of corruption. “The problem is people want to eat where they work. Babu was not such a person. We need more leaders who serve with integrity like him,” he added.
A Legacy of Honest Service
Karan’s steadfast commitment to public service was lauded by several speakers. Kisumu Deputy Governor Dr. Mathew Owili described him as both a loyal friend to Governor Nyong’o and a trusted leader.
Regional Commissioner for Nyanza, Flora Mworoa, remembered Karan as a persistent and dedicated leader. “He was instrumental during the launch of Kadibo as a sub-county. Babu has left us too soon, with much work unfinished. To his family, I urge you to trust in God, who is the ultimate source of comfort,” Mworoa said.
Nyakach MP Aduma Owuor, Kisumu County Executive Committee Members, and other county staff joined hundreds of mourners to honor Karan’s contributions to Kisumu and beyond.
A Life Dedicated to Service
Governor Nyong’o recounted his close relationship with Karan, who served as his chief adviser before assuming the role of Public Service Board Chair. “Babu’s honest and insightful advice shaped many of my decisions. Today, my wife Dorothy and I join Kisumu in mourning the loss of a remarkable leader and a dear friend,” Nyong’o stated.
Karan’s legacy as a teacher (“Mwalimu”) and a public servant dedicated to fairness and transparency was a recurring theme throughout the tributes.
A Community’s Farewell
The burial service saw the attendance of senior officials, including Kisumu Deputy Governor Dr. Mathew Owili, Nyanza Regional Commissioner Flora Mworoa, and numerous Kisumu County CECMs.
As the Kisumu community bade farewell to Mwalimu Charles Babu Karan, the call to uphold his values of integrity and service echoed among mourners. His passing marks the loss of a leader whose work left an indelible mark on the county’s governance and public service.
