The death of celebrated singer Ally B known for his pivotal role in promoting Coast music has prompted an outpouring of condolences and tributes not only from music fans in the country but also top political leaders led by President William Ruto.
Ally B, whose real name is Ali Khamisi Mwaliguli breathed his last on Wednesday.
He reportedly died while undergoing treatment at the Coast general hospital, after a short illness.
Ally B known for his famous hits like 'Kadzo', 'Maria', 'Bembea' among others tried his luck in politics in 2017 vying for the Junda ward representative seat on a jubilee ticket but lost.
Below are the condolence messages from political leaders.
President William Ruto
In his message of condolence President William Ruto said the late singer used his music to promote peace in the country.
"I join the music fraternity in mourning the passing of Ally B, a musician who harnessed his talent to foster unity and harmony in our society. Ali Khamisi Mwanguli inscribed his message of peace deep within our hearts, and we will forever carry that meaningful tune. May God provide solace to his family, friends and devoted fans." said Ruto.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi
The Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi noted the Coast industry has lost a vibrant and talented singer.
"Deeply saddened to hear about the untimely loss of ALLY B KHAMISI. The Coastal region and indeed the country has lost a vibrant and talented musician whose passion and creativity touched the hearts of many. His contribution to elevating the Mijikenda culture through his music is invaluable and will be remembered forever. I particularly loved his KADZO hit song and the message therein. My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and fans during this difficult time. May his soul rest in eternal peace." said Mudavadi.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi
Speaker Amason Kingi in his condolence message said the country has lost a young and dynamic youth who inspired many youths.
"I convey my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and fans of Ally B, who passed on today in Mombasa. Ally B was a talented artiste whose music featured prominently in the entertainment landscape both at the Coast, across Kenya and beyond our borders. We have lost a young and dynamic youth who was an inspiration to many upcoming artistes. May "his soul rest in eternal peace." said Kingi.
Gender and culture Secretary Aisha Jumwa
Gender, culture and Heritage Cabinet Secretary Aisha Jumwa said the late will be remembered for prowess in Coastal music.
"It is with deep sorrow that I have received the sad news of the passing on of the late legendary Coast musician Ally B. The late Ally B will always be revered for his prowess in Coastal music. He has been a symbol of the continuity and cultural heritage of the Coastal people. His talented contribution to this art shall always live in our memories. My heartfelt sympathies and condolences go to the immediate family and the entire region. May his soul rest in eternal peace." posted Jumwa.
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir said the late will remembered for his contribution to the arts through his music describing him as a warm personality.
I have learned of the sudden passing of popular musician Ali B with sadness. I offer my deepest condolences to his family, friends and the Mombasa community at large. Ali B will be remembered for his contribution to the arts through his music and his warm personality. Surely to our God we belong and to him we all return!" posted Nassir.
Former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho.
On his part former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho who frequently interacted with local artists during his term in office described the late as a remarkable and humble musician who inspired many upcoming artists.
"It is with deep sorrow that I have learnt of the passing of a legendary musician Ali Khamisi Mwaliguli also known as Ally B. The 'Ziki la Nazi' hit maker has been a wellspring of inspiration for numerous emerging musicians in the coastal region and the country at large. My heartfelt condolences and profound sympathies extend to all his friends and family as we collectively mourn the loss of this truly remarkable and humble musician. May Allah (SWT) grant you all the strength and patience needed during this trying time. Inna lillahi wa Inna Ilaihi Raji'un." posted Joho.
EALA MP Suleiman Shahbal
EALA Mp Suleiman Shahbal who worked closely with the late singer during the 2017 elections campaigns described him as a close friend who stood with him through different times.
"I am deeply saddened by the sudden death of my good friend and brother Ali B, a renowned local musician from our home county, Mombasa. Ali B has been by my side since I began my journey in politics. His music and unwavering support have been a source of inspiration for many. He walked with me through the highs and lows, and his legacy will live on in our hearts. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends during this difficult time. May Allah grant him Jannatul Firdous!" said Shahbal.
