This archive report was first published on 3 May 2021.
Joseph Wamukoya, the first Member of Parliament for Matungu, has passed away after a long illness. He served as MP from 1997 to 2002.
According to his widow, Elizabeth Wamukoya, the former MP had been ailing for years and had been receiving treatment at a Bungoma hospital on occasion. He passed away peacefully at their home early in the morning.
Wamukoya was born in Marinda village of Matungu in 1942 and had a distinguished career in politics and academia. He served as assistant minister in the Ministry of Lands and Settlement in June 2001 and was a lecturer at the University of Nairobi, teaching veterinary services.
He also taught at the Michigan State University in the USA before being recalled to Kenya to serve as the county's director of Veterinary Services. His close relationship with late President Daniel Moi led to the creation of the current Matungu constituency, where he served as the first MP.
Wamukoya vied to retain his seat in 2002 and 2007 but was defeated both times by David Were of NARC. He retired from active politics after the 2007 defeat and ventured into private business, including veterinary consultancy.
His widow described him as a decent man who helped shape the history of Matungu. "We have lost a decent man who helped shape the history of Matungu," she said.
Wamukoya's death comes six months after the third MP for Matungu, Justus Murunga, died in office in November 2020.
