As the year 2023 draws to a close, there are notable things that have marked the year in the political world. Some of these include heart wrenching events like the deaths of prominent and influential people in Nakuru.

The deaths, which came as a surprise, marked some of the darkest moments for the residents of Nakuru.

From political figures to liberation heroes and human rights crusaders. Below is a list of people whose deaths cast a dark cloud over Nakuru.

Ibrahim Ogeto.
A promising year turned dark on April 23 when residents awoke to the shocking news of the death of human rights activist Ibrahim Ogeto.

Mr Ogeto was the coordinator of the Paralegal Network in Nakuru County, which played a key role in providing access to justice for many Nakuru residents. He was also a member of the Alternative Justice System.

His death came as a huge blow to civil society organisations and the human rights movement, who described him as a strategic player in the justice system.

Paul Kemunche Masaese, the executive director of the Centre for Development and Good Governance, said Mr Ogeto acted as a link between citizens, civil society and government.

The cause of his death is not yet clear, although a report from his family said he had complained of a headache and cold before he was rushed to Mediheal Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Also Read: The day a Nakuru DC was charged for the murder of Robert Ouko

Mzee Elijah Chelaite.

The husband of former Rongai MP and first female mayor of Nakuru, Alicen Chelaite, was buried on August 19. Mzee Chelaite was involved in land-buying companies that led to property investment in Nakuru.

Among the leaders who attended his funeral were former Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui and Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives, Micro and Small Enterprises Simon Chelugui.

Monica Wangui Wamwere.

Monica Wangui, mother of politician Koigi Wamwere, died on October 27 at the age of 93 after a long illness. She is hailed as a champion of the second liberation struggle after leading protests at the Nairobi Freedom Corner in Uhuru Park in the 90s.
The protests led to the release of political prisoners, including her son Koigi Wamwere. Mrs Wangui was buried at her farm in Subukia Nakuru County.

Also Read: Mark Mwithaga: A man with influence beyond prison bars

Paul Mwithaga.

Another tragedy struck Nakuru in November with the death of Nakuru politician Madaraka Paul Mwithaga.

Mr Madaraka, the son of former Nakuru MP Mark Mwithaga, died at the age of 57.

His family confirmed that he succumbed to cancer while receiving treatment at Coptic Hospital in Nairobi. Mr Madaraka was a well-known Nakuru politician who contested for the Nakuru MP seat in 2007, 2013 and later for Senator in 2017.

Tom Osinde.

The death of former Treasury official Tom Osinde in June also shocked Nakuru residents.

Mr Osinde went missing on June 18 while travelling from his Ngata home in Nakuru to Borabu in Kisii County. His body was found in a river on June 22.

His vehicle was found abandoned and vandalised in Kilgoris, Narok County, with its number plates, battery and radio missing.
Osinde was buried at his home in Ngata.

A suspect, Julius Mogoi Ogao, who was his domestic helper, was arrested and charged with his murder. He has denied the charges.

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5 prominent deaths in 2023 that left a dark cloud in Nakuru

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Joseph Openda