Families of two former lawmakers have been thrown into mourning following the loss of their loved ones. Ex-Bonchari Member of Parliament Zebedeo John Opore was confirmed dead on October 18.
Nominated Senator Esther Okenyuri made the announcement on Friday morning while mourning the former lawmaker as a person who had an illustrious political career.
Okenyuri said that Opore demonstrated unshakeable commitment to his constituents by championing for their interests in and out of Parliament, adding that the people of Bonchari have lost a true champion.
“It is with profound sadness that I have learnt of the passing on of former Bonchari Constituency Member of Parliament Hon. Zebedeo John Opore. Throughout his illustrious political career, he demonstrated unshakeable commitment to his constituents by championing for their interests in and out of Parliament. He held deepest respect for both young and old,” said nominated Senator Esther Okenyuri.
“The people of Bonchari have lost a true champion and Kenya has lost a voice of reason with the passing of Hon. Opore.”
She added, “As we mourn this resolute and unswerving leader, my prayers and thoughts are with the family all the people of Bonchari who loved him. May Hon. Zebedeo Opore rest in peace.”
Zebedo Opore
Born on January 8, 1947, Opore has passed away at the age of 77. His political career kickstarted when he was elected to represent the Bonchari Constituency in the National Assembly in the 1997 general election.
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Opore also served as the Assistant Minister in the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting.
He later lost the seat in the 2007 election to Charles Onyancha before reclaiming his seat when he was declared the winner and subsequently sworn in as Bonchari Constituency MP in the 2013 general election.
However, six months later Opore’s rival, John Oyioka who had vied in an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party ticket successfully petitioned his election and was declared the winner by the Kisii High Court.
But Oyioka’s victory was short-lived, with the court overruling the judgment that sent him to Parliament, after he had served for six months.
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The former lawmaker holds an Economics degree from the University of Nairobi and an MSc in Economics from the University of Bradford in the United Kingdom which he attained in 1982.
Former Women Rep passes away
At the same time, the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has announced the death of former Tharaka Nithi Woman Representative, Beatrice Nkatha.
KEWOPA in statement on Friday mourned Nkatha as a visionary leader and a dedicated servant of the people.
“It is with deep sorrow and profound sadness that we join in mourning the passing of former Tharaka Nithi Woman Representative, Hon. Beatrice Nkatha, a visionary leader and a dedicated servant of the people,” the statement reads.
KEWOPA added, “Hon. Nkatha’s unwavering commitment to championing women’s rights, empowering communities, and promoting gender equality leaves behind a lasting legacy that will inspire generations to come. Her leadership and compassion will be deeply missed.”
Nkatha who served as the Tharaka Nithi Woman Representative for two terms between 2013 and 2022 passed on after a long illness and while receiving treatment at the Kiirua Mission Hospital in Meru.
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