Catherine Nyamato: Ex-Nominated MP Collapses, Dies Near Her Farm

• Former nominated Member of Parliament Catherine Nyamato made history as the first nominated Gusii legislator
• Just as she was conversing with the youth in Kijauri, Nyamira county, tragedy struck, leading to her demise
• Kisii senator Richard Onyonka took to his social media platform to pay an emotional tribute to the veteran politician

Faith Chandianya, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and Current Affairs in Kenya

The country has once again been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran politician and ex-nominated Member of Parliament, Catherine Nyamato.

Nyamato secured her role as a legislator after being nominated by the late former president Daniel Toroitich Arap Moi under the then-ruling party KANU.

How did Catherine Nyamato die?

Nyamato reportedly collapsed and died by the roadside near her farm in Kijauri, Nyamira county.

According to reports, she was conversing with the youth about an ongoing area project when tragedy struck.

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In a statement seen by TUKO.co.ke, Senator Richard Onyonka joined the people of Nyamira and Kisii counties in mourning the death of the former MP.

"I am deeply saddened to join the people of Nyamira, Kisii, and the nation in mourning the loss of Hon. Catherine Moraa Nyamato, an extraordinary woman, a trailblazer, and a fearless advocate for justice and women's rights," Onyonka's statement read in part.

The senator paid an emotional tribute to the fallen ex-MP, terming her a symbol of courage and determination.

"Hon. Nyamato made history as the first nominated Member of Parliament from the Gusii community. Her strong commitment to fighting gender-based violence, harmful cultural practices, and systemic inequality has left a significant legacy that will continue to inspire our society for generations," he said.

Senator Onyonka praises Nyamato's leadership skills

Onyonka further praised Nyamato's leadership qualities in her role as the secretary-general of the League of Kenyan Women Voters and a prominent figure in civic education.

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Additionally, he said that Nyamato empowered the women to believe in their capabilities, which in turn helped them secure their rightful place in the country's leadership position.

"Her work was not only political; it was deeply personal and aimed at uplifting the most vulnerable in our communities. On behalf of the people of Kisii County and as Senator, I offer my deepest condolences to the Nyamato family, friends, and everyone whose lives were touched by her kindness, strength, and activism," he added.

"May her soul rest in peace, and may her legacy endure in the ongoing fight for justice, equality, and inclusive leadership."

How did other leaders mourn Nyamato?

Education CS Migos Ogamba eulogised Nyamato as a dedicated public servant who contributed immensely to the growth and transformation of governance and good leadership in the country.

He described the deceased as a selfless leader who upheld integrity throughout her career as an advocate, lawmaker, gender activist and champion of human rights and democracy.

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Many will remember her for her tireless and selfless efforts to uplift her people, and for her integrity, compassion and humility.

I pray that the Almighty God grants her family, friends and relatives, and the people of West Mugirango, the strength and fortitude to bear this difficult period.

Former Chief Justice David Maraga said Nyamato was instrumental in the establishment of civic forums on women's participation in politics and governance.

Maraga also recognised the deceased's role in the constitutional-making processes in the country, particularly in coming up with the Bomas draft.

Nominated senator Easther Onyujkuri said Nyamato's death was a big loss to the Gusii community and Kenya at large. She described her as "a woman of valour who never compromised her beliefs, passionate in what she fought for, she never surrendered even in the face of intimidation".

Former IEBC commissioner Roselyn Akombe attributed her growth and success to Nyamato, whom she described as a mother and mentor.

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Ex-Baringo MP Willy Rotich dies

Nyamato's death comes months after the former Baringo North MP, Willy Rotich, died. Rotich, who was also the first ever Baringo MP, passed away while receiving treatment at a medical facility in Nairobi.

However, the family did not disclose the specific type of illness that caused the former MP's demise.

Rotich served as MP for a period of six years from 1963 to 1969 under the Kenya African Democratic Union (KADU) ticket.

Masolo Mabonga, HOD Current Affairs and Politics, updated this article with details on how other leaders mourned Catherine Nyamato.

Proofreading by Mercy Nyambura, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.

Source: TUKO.co.ke