The Standard reports that a source close to the Kibakis disclosed that “the family decided to rush him to hospital on Saturday night when he complained of pain in the joints”.
The source further explained that Mr Kibaki had been well during the day but complained of fatigue. He apparently developed complications arising from his 2002 road accident that occurred at the Machakos turn off as his motorcade was coming from a campaign rally.
According to a report by the Nation, Mr Kibaki was wheeled into the Karen hospital emergency unit at around 9pm on Saturday night.
The former President had reportedly been going for check-ups fortnightly at the Karen hospital, which is owned by Dr Dan Gikonyo, his personal doctor.
Hospital staff who spoke confidentially to the press revealed that Mr Kibaki was taken out of Karen hospital in an ambulance that was highly guarded.
“The ambulance was between a police chase car, two Mercedes Benzes and two Toyota VXs,” one of the sources said.
Reports indicate that Kibaki’s family members including his children had initially gone to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport but were recalled to Wilson and accompanied him on the flight to South Africa.
A statement from State House noted that the former President was also accompanied by his doctor to South Africa.
“We expect him to return soon, and Kenyans will be informed of his progress as appropriate,” said government spokesman Manoah Esipisu. “We ask Kenyans to pray for him and to respect the privacy of the family at this difficult time.” statement from the Presidency said Mr Kibaki was accompanied by his doctor to South Africa.
just in @ 10:00
GET WELL SOON, PRESIDENT MWAI KIBAKI:
Mama Ida and I send good wishes to the former President H.E Mwai Kibaki and his entire family following his hospitalisation. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family at this trying moment. We believe all Kenyans have him in prayers too. We also wish the President speedy recovery and we encourage his family to stay strong. Get well soon Mr President, our country still needs you.
Hon Raila Odinga; EGH
