Uhuru, Ruto, Raila lead Kenyans in mourning Ken Okoth

President Uhuru Kenyatta has mourned the passing of Kibra Member of Parliament (MP) Ken Okoth, saying the country has lost an “astute and progressive legislator”.

“May God the Almighty comfort his family, friends, relatives, constituents and indeed all Kenyans during this difficult period of mourning,” the President said.

Deputy President William Ruto in his condolence message described the legislator as "an enthusiastic, energetic, distinguished and public-spirited leader, who served his constituents with dedication and selflessness."

"Okoth had a dogged personality, tenacity that elevated him among his peers and gave him an invincible aura. His battle with cancer exemplified his bravery, endurance and strength in adversity," the DP said on his Facebook page.

On his part, Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party leader, Raila Odinga, said: “Ken battled cancer with unique bravery while serving his voters to the last minutes of his life. May God grant peace and strength to his family and may he Rest In Peace.” 

Speaker Justin Muturi said death struck at a time the National Assembly was looking forward to Ken Okoth's comeback after undergoing treatment in France.

“Ken was a visionary, indefatigable and exceptional legislator whose commitment to House and constituency duties was unmatched,” said Muturi on Twitter.

Senate Speaker, Ken Lusaka, revealed that when he met the MP in France on June 3, he was jovial and determined to win the war against cancer.

“Even as Ken battled ill-health, he was still determined to transform his constituency. It is sad to have lost such a vibrant and focused young leader,” Lusaka said.

The legislator, 41, was on Thursday night rushed to Nairobi Hospital in critical condition. He succumbed to Colorectal cancer on Friday, July 26.

Colorectal cancer (CRC), also known as bowel cancer and colon cancer, is the development of cancer from the colon or rectum (parts of the large intestine).

Sources told K24 Digital that the lawmaker, who was serving his second term, was admitted to the facility’s intensive care unit upon arrival.

Okoth’s hospitalisation came two weeks after he arrived in Kenya from France, where he was under medication.

The parliamentarian was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer five months ago.