Ong’ondo Were, Other Prominent Politicians and Kenyans Who Died in 2025

Kenya Mourns: Prominent Leaders and Public Figures Lost in 2025
The year 2025 has been marked by a series of tragic losses for Kenya, as the nation bid farewell to several prominent politicians and public servants who shaped the country’s political and civic landscape. Among those who passed away was former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson Wafula Chebukati, who died on February 20 at The Nairobi Hospital after being treated in the Intensive Care Unit. Chebukati, 63, oversaw Kenya’s highly contested 2017 and 2022 elections, playing a pivotal role in the country’s democratic processes. The nation also grieved the loss of Phoebe Asiyo, a revered advocate for women’s empowerment, who passed away on July 17 in the United States, leaving behind a legacy of championing gender equality in Kenyan politics.
Other notable figures who died in 2025 included Baringo Senator William Cheptumo, who passed on February 16 after a career spanning law and politics, having served as Assistant Minister for Justice and later chairing the Senate Committee on National Security. Malulu Injendi, vice chairperson of the National Assembly Committee on Education and Research, died on February 17 while receiving treatment at Aga Khan Hospital. Ong’ondo Were, the Kasipul Constituency MP, was fatally shot by an assailant on April 31 near Nairobi’s City Mortuary Roundabout. In Nairobi County politics, Joel Munuve, representing Kariobangi North, died on April 22, leaving a vacuum after his role in spearheading efforts to impeach Governor Johnson Sakaja over alleged mismanagement and corruption. Additionally, former Laikipia North MP Mathew Lempurkel succumbed to injuries from a road accident on August 24, highlighting the ongoing vulnerability of public figures to both health and security risks.
These losses have sent shockwaves through Kenya’s political and civic communities, prompting tributes from colleagues and citizens alike. Leaders and civil society have reflected on the contributions of these individuals to governance, democracy, and social justice, emphasizing their roles in shaping Kenya’s political evolution. Moving forward, the passing of these leaders serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing new leadership and sustaining the reforms and initiatives they championed. With upcoming elections and shifting political landscapes, Kenya faces the challenge of building on their legacies while ensuring continuity in public service and advocacy for social progress.