Kenyans Mourn Ex-Karachuonyo MP, Remember Her Role in Women Leadership: "Big Tree Has Fallen"
- Veteran politician and the brains behind the two-thirds gender rule, Phoebe Asiyo, passed away in North Carolina, US, at the age of 93
- Asiyo was elected as the Member of Parliament of Karachuonyo Constituency, in Homa Bay county, in 1982
- Following her death, Kenyans and politicians took to social media to mourn the veteran leader, highlighting her role in women's leadership
Faith Chandianya, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and Current Affairs in Kenya
Kenyans have once again been thrown into mourning following the death of yet another former member of parliament, Phoebe Asiyo.
Source: Twitter
Asiyo was the former Karachuonyo MP who served as the first chairperson of the Mandeleo ya Wanawake.
Who was veteran politician Phoebe Asiyo?
She was best known as the pioneer of the two-thirds gender rule that is entrenched in Kenya's 2010 Constitution.
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Asiyo was elected as Karachuonyo MP in the year 1982.
The family of the veteran politician announced her death on Thursday, July 17. They confirmed that she died in North Carolina, in the United States.
Additionally, they paid an emotional tribute, terming her a 'matriarch, leader, and trailblazer—whose spirit, resilience, and compassion transformed countless lives in Kenya and far beyond.'
How did Kenyans react to Phoebe Asiyo's death?
The news of Asiyo's death caught many Kenyans, including politicians, by surprise. They took to social media to reminisce about the veteran ex-MP's role in women's leadership.
Homa Bay governor Gladys Wanga:
"My heart is heavy as we mourn the loss of a beacon, a mentor to many, a trailblazer whose light guided so many of us. Mama Phoebe Asiyo was not just a leader; she was the steady hand that lifted others, the voice that spoke for the voiceless, and the unwavering spirit that refused to accept injustice. Today, Kenya has lost a matriarch."
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo:
"We convey our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and the people of Karachuonyo following the passing of an incredible trailblazer, Mama Phoebe Asiyo. Mama Asiyo broke barriers at a time when few dared to speak, paving the way for generations of women leaders in Kenya and beyond. Her wisdom, grace and unyielding commitment to equity will forever be etched in our collective memory."
Ben Kitili:
"Dr. Phoebe Muga Asiyo has rested. An icon in Kenyan politics. Elected Karachuonyo MP back in 1982, she was the original champion of the two-thirds gender rule that is entrenched in Kenya’s constitution of 2010. A big tree has fallen."
Marion Hope:
"Today, we've lost a true champion of Kenyan women. Phoebe Asiyo wasn't just a politician—she was a trailblazer who opened doors for generations of women. Her fearless advocacy for women's rights and unwavering dedication to justice inspired us all. Rest in power."
Spirit of Kisumu:
"Dr. Phoebe Muga Asiyo has rested. A trailblazer and fearless voice for women’s rights—elected Karachuonyo MP in 1982 and champion of the two-thirds gender rule in our Constitution. A towering icon has fallen. Kenya mourns."
Ex-nominated MP Catherine Nyamato dies
Asiyo's death was announced hours after ex-nominated MP Catherine Nyamato was pronounced dead.
Source: Facebook
Nyamato was the first Gusii nominated MP in former president Daniel Toroitich Arap Moi's regime under the then ruling party of KANU.
Kisii senator Richard Onyonka was among the political leaders in the country who mourned the former MP's death.
Proofreading by Jackson Otukho, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
