On January 26, wife to Kenya's veteran football diehard Isaac Juma confirmed the death of the staunch soccer fan, which has left many people in shock.
It was reported that the ever-present football fan especially during Harambee Stars and AFC Leopards matches was hacked to death by unknown attackers at his home in Mumias, Kakamega County on the night of Wednesday night, January 26.
His wife Farida Juma confirmed his death, linking the attack to a protracted land dispute.
The presence of Juma in each football game was obvious as he dyed his hair to resemble the colours of a specific team he supported.
During games, Juma had his own secluded stand where he would cheer the team from, catching the attention of match officials, players and the general public.
A cross section of leaders have come out to condole with the family as they expressed their sympathies and dismay at the news of his departure.
“We are heartbroken by the loss of the ever-present AFC Leopards and Harambee Stars long standing fan Isaac Juma. He was a friendly, ever jovial and passionate soccer supporter. Our thoughts are with the family and soccer fraternity during this painful time. Rest In Peace, Juma,” Deputy President William Ruto stated.
The DP added, “I have learnt with profound shock and sadness the sudden death of Mr Isaac Juma. Juma was a devoted and entertaining football enthusiast who graced many sporting activities in the County and entire Country. He was the number one fan of Harambee Stars and AFC Leopards."
Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya also sent his message of condolence. “At this hour of sorrow, I pray to God to grant his family fortitude and comfort to bear the loss. May the soul of Juma rest in eternal peace.”
On his part, Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala described the late Juma as a dominant figure in the country's football landscape.
“Saddened to have woken up to the news that soccer has lost one of its most loyal fans, Juma. A dominant figure in each of my annual Cleo Malalah super cups. On behalf of my family and the people of Kakamega, I express my heartfelt condolences to his family and friends,” Malala's social media post read.
Former Sports Cabinet Secretary Rashid Echesa remembered Juma as a person who added flavour to football in the country and that he would be dearly missed.
“It's with profound sorrow to be informed about the death of Mr. Isaac Juma. Kenya has lost a fantastic and most admired ultras zany in the football fraternity. The Late Isaac Juma was a devoted and entertaining football fan both locally and internationally.
“I will personally remember him as my constituent and a personal friend who used to visit me making lots of fun and hilarious jokes. Our prayers are with his family, relatives and friends during this trying moment of grief. May his soul rest in power!” Echesa eulogised.
Several Soccer clubs including Sofapaka and Bandari FC also remembered Juma as an enthusiastic person who passionately loved the game.
“On behalf of Sofapaka management, we convey our sincere condolences to the family of ardent soccer fan Isaac Juma who passed away last night. May He Rest well,” Sofapaka eulogised.
“On behalf of the leadership of our club we send our condolences to the family and friends of one of the country's most enthusiastic football fans, Isaac Juma, after his death that happened tonight. Rest in peace,” Bandari FC eulogised.
Juma featured in most of Harambee Stars matches at Nyayo and Kasarani stadiums, with the national team describing him as unmatched super fan.
“Our condolences go out to the family and friends of our top fan, Isaac Juma following his disturbing death yesterday night.His passion for the game was unmatched. May his soul rest in peace, and may his family find solace during these difficult times,” Harambee Stars stated.