This archive report was first published on 27 July 2019.
Ken Okoth, the former Kibra MP, left an indelible mark on the lives of his constituents and the country at large. He was a champion of human rights and a dedicated public servant who served with humility and dedication.
Okoth had been battling colorectal cancer for months, and despite his condition, he remained optimistic about his recovery. However, his health took a turn for the worse, and he was rushed to the Nairobi Hospital on Thursday evening.
According to his brother, Imran Okoth, the MP's condition deteriorated at 8pm on Thursday, forcing doctors to place him on life support against his wishes. "We want to inform the nation, the people of Kibra, that the leader they trust, a servant leader, Honourable Ken Okoth, is no more. He passed on a while ago," Mr Imran said.
Okoth's death sent shockwaves across the country, with leaders from all walks of life paying tribute to his memory. Senate Speaker Ken Lusaka described him as a focused MP who worked tirelessly for the people of Kibra. "I met him in Paris, France, and despite his condition, he looked forward to coming back to serve his people. His work in a few years at the helm of the constituency cannot go unnoticed. The poor in Kibra, especially the students, have seen his efforts. It’s a big loss for them," Mr Lusaka said.
Okoth's colleagues in Parliament also paid tribute to his memory, with National Assembly Majority leader Aden Duale describing him as a committed leader who knew his responsibilities in the House, committees, his constituency, church, and political rallies. "He was a great mind that this country really needed, especially in the education sector, going by what he has done in his backyard," Mr Duale said.
Okoth's funeral arrangements will start on Saturday, and the family has requested that the nation and the general public give them space to make the necessary arrangements.
