This archive report was first published on 18 August 2019.
On Saturday morning, the body of Peter Magara, a former Jubilee strategist, was found outside the Magharibi Hotel in Kisii. Magara had checked into the hotel with his wife, Jane Nyambura Magara, on Thursday evening.
According to Nyambura, her husband had been exhibiting unusual behavior in the past week and had shown signs of stress. They had sought medication at a private hospital in Kisii, but the situation seemed to have taken a turn for the worse.
Magara had been part of President Uhuru Kenyatta's campaign team in 2017, and had also worked with Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang'i and Health PS Susan Mochache. He was also a key member of the Gusii Professionals Group.
On the night of Friday, Magara had stepped out of the hotel, but was unable to start his car engine. He returned to the room, but his wife did not notice him leaving again. His body was found outside the hotel the next morning.
Kisii County police boss Martin Kibet said that the family had tried to restrain Magara for two days before his body was recovered. An investigation is underway, with initial inquiries suggesting that Magara may have developed a psychiatric problem.
Magara's colleagues and friends have condoled with the family, saying that he was one of the best brains in the community. He will be missed for his professional expertise.
