In a rare and heartfelt moment of public worship, Makueni County Assembly Speaker Douglas Mbilu stepped away from politics and into the pulpit—literally—as he led the choir during a farewell mass for Rev. Fr. Boniface Muthama at Kathonzweni Catholic Parish.
The farewell service drew hundreds of faithful from across Makueni, all gathered to honor the priest’s faithful years of service before his reassignment to Kaumoni Parish. But it was Speaker Mbilu’s deeply personal tribute — delivered not from a high podium, but from within the choir — that captured the spirit of true servant leadership.
“You have served Kathonzweni Parish with dedication, humility, and faithfully shared God’s Word. May your new assignment at Kaumoni Parish be blessed and fruitful. The Lord bless you and keep you…” — Speaker Douglas Mbilu, quoting Numbers 6:24–26.
His act of humility — not making a political speech but instead joining fellow faithful in song — has since gone viral on social media, with many Kenyans praising him for practicing what many preach: leading by example.
Online reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with users across platforms describing Mbilu as a “leader of the people” and praising his quiet commitment to spiritual values in public service. One viral post read: “Speaker Mbilu didn’t come to campaign, he came to worship. That’s what servant leadership looks like.” Another said: “When politicians stand on church altars to seek votes, Mbilu stands with the choir to serve. Respect.”
Speaker Mbilu has built a reputation in Makueni as a leader who prefers action over headlines. By honoring Rev. Fr. Muthama in a deeply spiritual and participatory way, he reminded many that public leadership and spiritual grounding can — and should — coexist.
Rev. Fr. Muthama, who has been a fixture in the Kathonzweni Parish for years, leaves behind a legacy of devotion and community growth. His next chapter at Kaumoni Parish begins with the prayers and blessings of a community — and a county speaker — who showed up not just to speak, but to sing.
