This archive report was first published on 30 July 2019.
July 30, 2019
Kenya has witnessed the untimely demise of several prominent politicians who were still in office at the time of their passing. Their stories serve as a reminder of the fragility of life and the impact of their loss on the nation.
One such politician was Nderitu Gachagua, who passed away in 2017 after a brave battle with pancreatic cancer. He was receiving treatment at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London when he succumbed to his illness.
Another notable figure was Joyce Laboso, the first woman governor of Bomet, who breathed her last on July 29, 2019, at a Nairobi hospital. She was battling cancer and had been admitted to the ICU.
George Muchai, a Member of Parliament, met his demise in February 2015 after being shot dead at the Kenyatta Avenue-Uhuru Highway roundabout in Nairobi. Two of his bodyguards and his driver also lost their lives in the incident.
Joseph Nkaissery, the Secretary for Internal Security and Coordination of National Government, passed away in July 2017 at Karen Hospital, just hours after attending a prayer service. His death was a shock to many, given his relatively young age.
Wahome Gakuru, who took over as Nyeri Governor after Gachagua's death, lost his life in a road accident in November 2017. He was rushed to Thika Level 5 Hospital but succumbed to his injuries on arrival.
Lastly, Godfrey Gitahi Kariuki, a Senator representing Laikipia, passed away in 2017 while still in office. His untimely death was a significant loss to the nation.