This archive report was first published on 29 July 2019.
On July 26, 2019, a devastating tragedy struck the family of Ikolomani Member of Parliament Benard Shinali. His 35-year-old son, Chris Atema, tragically lost his life in a swimming pool accident while on holiday with his family in Arizona.
According to reports, Atema was trying to rescue a teenage girl of Canadian descent who was drowning in the pool. Unfortunately, he also lost his life in the process.
MP Shinali has since traveled to the United States to establish the exact circumstances surrounding his son's death, with the assistance of American authorities.
As the family comes to terms with this loss, they have urged Kenyans to respect their privacy during this difficult time. In a statement, the family's spokesperson, Robert Avisi, who is also the MP's elder brother, said, 'He had been in Arizona for only one day, it is sudden death, as a family, we shall give a comprehensive statement on what exactly occurred once we have been briefed by the MP who has traveled to the USA.'
Chris Atema leaves behind an expectant wife and two children, and his untimely passing has sent shockwaves through the community.
