By: Abdulaziz Abeid & Lubnah Abdulhalim
The Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) today held a Holy Mass and fundraiser in honour of its former Technical University of Mombasa Students Association (TUMSA) President, Elvis Otieno, popularly known as "Beast." The university community, government leaders, religious leaders, family and friends came together to celebrate the life of a young leader whose unwavering dedication to student welfare left an indelible mark on the institution.
The day's events began with a solemn procession from Pandya Memorial Hospital to the Technical University of Mombasa, where Elvis's body was received by a sombre crowd before the Holy Mass and fundraiser.
An atmosphere of grief engulfed the university as mourners filed past his casket during a body viewing session, paying their final respects amid hymns and prayers. The memorial service later proceeded with a Requiem Holy Mass before culminating in a fundraising event to support his family ahead of his burial in Kisumu County on 8th August.
The emotional ceremony attracted several national and county leaders, underscoring the immense impact Elvis had made during his lifetime.
Among those in attendance was Interior Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo, who paid glowing tribute to the late student leader, describing him as a younger brother, trusted friend and visionary youth leader who was deeply committed to transforming the country through active youth participation.
The Principal Secretary noted that he shared many conversations with Elvis on matters affecting young people and commended his unwavering passion for supporting government initiatives aimed at empowering the youth.
"Elvis believed that leadership was about serving people. He constantly challenged us to think about how we could create more opportunities for young Kenyans. His passion, commitment and courage made him an exceptional leader," said Dr Omollo.
The Principal Secretary also conveyed a message of condolence from President William Ruto, noting that the Head of State fondly remembered Elvis for his steadfast support and commitment to the government's development agenda.
Dr Omollo observed that Elvis demonstrated exceptional political mobilisation through the establishment of the Visionary Alliance for Ruto (VAR), a grassroots movement that championed the President's vision while encouraging greater youth participation in national development.
He further delivered a condolence message from Cabinet Secretary for Interior Kipchumba Murkomen and other national leaders who described Elvis as a passionate advocate for young people and a leader whose legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
Speaking during the memorial service, Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs Fikirini Jacobs described Elvis as an outstanding student leader whose commitment to improving students' welfare earned him admiration across institutions of higher learning.
Fikirini recalled working closely with Elvis during their days as student leaders and said the late TUMSA President remained steadfast in championing issues affecting students while inspiring many through his servant leadership.
"He understood that leadership is not about power but about service. His voice was always for the students, and his legacy will continue to inspire young leaders across the country," said Fikirini.
In a moving tribute, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir announced that the County Government of Mombasa would fully settle all outstanding medical bills incurred during Elvis Otieno's treatment.
The Governor also announced plans to construct a modern student centre at the Technical University of Mombasa to replace the facility that was destroyed by fire, revealing that the building would be named the "Beast Centre" in honour of the late student leader's enduring contribution to the university community.
Governor Nassir further disclosed that the County Government would provide 3 buses to transport students to Kisumu County to accord Elvis a befitting final send-off during his burial on 8th August.
Addressing mourners, Technical University of Mombasa Vice-Chancellor Professor Laila Abubakar described Elvis as an exceptional student leader, mentor and friend whose life was defined by integrity, compassion and an unwavering commitment to uplifting others. Having come to regard him as a son, she paid a heartfelt tribute to his remarkable life and legacy.
"Elvis led with compassion and purpose. He always placed the interests of fellow students before his own and remained committed to creating a better university community. His legacy will forever remain part of the history of this institution," said Prof. Abubakar.
The Vice-Chancellor challenged current and future student leaders to emulate Elvis' example by embracing servant leadership, unity and compassion.
She urged students to support one another, remain committed to serving their communities and continue building a university culture founded on empathy, integrity and selflessness.
Both Governor Nassir and Vice-Chancellor Professor Abubakar observed that whatever is done in Elvis's honour will never be enough to match the impact he made on the lives of so many people.
That sentiment was reflected in the fundraising held after the memorial service, which attracted an overwhelming show of support from leaders, friends and well-wishers.
President William Ruto sent a contribution of KSh1 million to support Elvis' family. Interior Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo donated KSh1 million and also conveyed a contribution of KSh500,000 on behalf of Cabinet Secretary for Interior Kipchumba Murkomen, who was unable to attend the memorial service. Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs Fikirini Jacobs donated KSh200,000, while Technical University of Mombasa Vice-Chancellor Professor Laila Abubakar contributed KSh100,000. Mvita MP Mohammed Machele donated KSh30,000, with many other leaders, organisations and members of the public also making contributions in support of Elvis' family.
Throughout the ceremony, tributes from family members, former student leaders, alumni, colleagues and friends painted the picture of a charismatic leader whose influence extended far beyond the walls of the University. Many remembered him as approachable, courageous and deeply committed to helping others regardless of their background.
The celebrations of Elvis's life will continue tomorrow with a candlelight vigil and the TUM Football Day Farewell, as the University community gathers once more to honour his memory.
Though his voice has fallen silent, his servant leadership, unwavering friendship and relentless advocacy for students will continue to inspire generations at the Technical University of Mombasa and beyond.
