The year 2025 will be remembered not just for milestones and turbulence but also for the loss of influential Kenyans whose work shaped politics, culture, sports, media, and civil society.
Across the country, leaders, artists, athletes, journalists, and academics passed away, leaving behind legacies that provoked grief, reflection, and discussion. From sudden tragedies to peaceful departures, these deaths left the nation grappling with questions of memory, legacy, and societal responsibility.
Raila Odinga – End of an Era in Politics
On October 15, 2025, Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga died at age 80 while in India for medical treatment. Reports state that he collapsed during a morning walk and succumbed to cardiac arrest.
His death triggered national mourning, with the government declaring a week of grief and planning a state funeral. Raila, who served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, had been a central figure in Kenya’s democratic evolution, a persistent presidential contender, and a symbol of hope for many. Across the country, communities held vigils, processions, and long queues to pay tribute, reflecting the deep connection he had with the nation.
Professor Bethwell Ogot – A Historian Remembered
Professor Bethwell Allan Ogot passed away on January 30 at the age of 95 in Kisumu after a short illness. A leading scholar in African history, Ogot’s work guided generations of historians and shaped the country’s understanding of its own past.
Leaders hailed him as a “true thinker and intellectual par excellence,” noting that his departure leaves a void in historical scholarship. His death marked the end of a distinguished career dedicated to chronicling Kenya’s journey and identity.
Wafula Chebukati – Champion of Electoral Oversight
Wafula Chebukati, former chair of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, died in Nairobi on February 20 at 63. Chebukati oversaw pivotal elections, including the contentious 2017 and 2022 polls, and became synonymous with electoral leadership.
His passing drew tributes from across political divides, with many describing him as “a principled and diligent leader.” In a nation where trust in elections is often fragile, his death prompted reflection on the integrity and challenges of electoral governance.
The late former IEBC chairman Wafula Chebukati. PHOTO/StandardThe late former IEBC chairman Wafula Chebukati. PHOTO/Standard
Leonard Mambo Mbotela – Voice of a Generation
Veteran broadcaster Leonard Mambo Mbotela died on February 7, 2025, prompting widespread nostalgia in media circles. His voice had been a familiar presence in Kenyan homes, delivering news, sports, and social commentary for decades.
Mbotela’s passing signified the close of a chapter when radio broadcasting carried authority, connection, and emotional resonance for listeners nationwide.
Kimani Mbugua – Bright Star Lost Too Early
In October, former Citizen TV journalist Kimani Mbugua passed away at 29, shocking colleagues and the public. Mbugua had previously opened up about his mental health struggles, stating in 2023, “I’m struggling … niko kwa shida, and I need your help.” His death reignited discussions on the mental health challenges faced by young professionals in the media and underscored the need for better support systems.
Joseph Munyao – Dedicated Public Servant
Former Cabinet Minister Joseph Munyao died in November at age 85 while receiving treatment in Nairobi. He served multiple terms representing Mbooni Constituency and held the post of Minister for Livestock and Fisheries Development under President Mwai Kibaki.
Governor Mutula Kilonzo Junior called him “a dedicated leader whose service to the nation and commitment to his constituents would be fondly remembered,” while Kalonzo Musyoka described him as “a quiet yet powerful presence, humble, disciplined, and always placing the service of others above himself.” Munyao’s passing left a void in rural development leadership and community service.
Munyoro Nyamau – Kenya’s Track Legend
Olympic gold medalist Munyoro Nyamau died on October 7 from gallbladder cancer at a hospital in Nakuru. He had achieved international recognition with a gold medal in the 1972 4 × 400 m relay team, a silver in 1968, and gold at the 1970 British Commonwealth Games. Nyamau’s legacy reminded the nation of Kenya’s athletic glory and the perseverance of its sports heroes.
Celebrated writer and thinker Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, who passed away on May 28, 2025, in Atlanta.
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o – Literary and Cultural Icon
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o passed away in late May at age 87. Announced by his daughter via social media, she wrote, “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our dad, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o.”
A champion of language, identity, and postcolonial critique, Ngũgĩ’s work—including the influential “Decolonizing the Mind”—challenged injustices and inspired generations. His passing drew tributes from around the world, celebrating his enduring impact on literature and culture.
Albert Ojwang – Death in Custody Sparks Outcry
Albert Omondi Ojwang, a teacher, blogger, and outspoken commentator, died on June 7 while in police custody in Nairobi. Authorities initially claimed his death was self-inflicted, but an autopsy revealed severe head injuries, neck compression, and trauma, indicating assault.
His death triggered national protests, human rights outcry, and renewed discussions about police conduct and detainee safety.
Charles Omuga Kabisae – Steady Voice on the Air
Veteran radio broadcaster Charles Omuga Kabisae died on August 10 after a prolonged illness. Known for his “matangazo maalum na ya vifo,” Kabisae’s calm and dignified delivery comforted countless listeners.
His passing marked the end of an era in Kenyan radio, where his measured voice became a national symbol of reliable news delivery.
Cyrus Jirongo – Sudden End in Road Tragedy
Former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo died on December 13 at age 64 following a head-on collision with a bus in Karai, Naivasha. Police reports stated that Jirongo lost control while driving toward Nairobi, sustaining fatal head injuries. His death abruptly ended a long political career.
The late gospel singer Betty Bayo. PHOTO/Handout
Betty Bayo – Gospel Music Star
Gospel singer Betty Bayo, famed for her song “11th Hour,” passed away on November 10 at Kenyatta National Hospital due to blood cancer. Her family confirmed her death, explaining that acute leukemia led to complications despite medical care. Fellow musicians praised her as “a humble, gifted, and inspirational figure” whose music left a lasting spiritual impact across Kenya.
The lives lost in 2025 reveal the breadth of grief felt nationwide, spanning politics, sports, media, arts, and civil society. Some departures, like those of Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o and Munyoro Nyamau, followed long and accomplished lives, while others, including Kimani Mbugua and Cyrus Jirongo, ended suddenly, leaving unanswered questions.
These deaths not only mourn individuals but also renew attention on issues such as mental health, accountability, and public service. As Kenya looks toward 2026, the legacies of these leaders, artists, and public servants remain part of the nation’s evolving story.
