Ol Kalou MP David Njuguna Kiaraho Dies in Nairobi Hospital
The political scene in Kenya has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of Ol Kalou Member of Parliament David Njuguna Kiaraho.
Kiaraho passed away on Sunday, March 29, while undergoing treatment at Nairobi Hospital, according to an official statement from National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
At the time of his death, the exact cause and nature of the illness he had been battling had not been publicly disclosed, leaving many Kenyans seeking answers about the circumstances surrounding his passing.
Speaker Wetang’ula Confirms Death, Announces Funeral Plans
In his statement, Wetang’ula expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the legislator, describing him as a dedicated public servant who committed his life to serving the people of Ol Kalou.
“On behalf of all Members and staff of the National Assembly, and indeed on my own behalf, I convey my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the late Hon. Kiaraho,” said Wetang’ula.
He also revealed that a special funeral preparation committee has already been constituted to coordinate burial arrangements in collaboration with the family.
The committee will be led by Kinangop MP Kwenya Thuku and deputized by Nyandarua Woman Representative Faith Gitau, alongside seven other members of Parliament.
Long Battle With Illness
Reports indicate that Kiaraho had been unwell for a considerable period. During this time, he sought treatment both locally and abroad as efforts were made to manage his condition.
Despite his illness, development initiatives in his constituency continued, with support coming from both government agencies and partners.
Just days before his death, a representative acting on his behalf received 40 water tanks from the Kenya Wildlife Service to support schools with water harvesting during the rainy season.
A Political Career Spanning Over a Decade
Kiaraho first rose to national prominence after being elected as Ol Kalou MP in the 2013 General Election. He went on to successfully defend his seat in both the 2017 and 2022 elections, cementing his influence in Nyandarua County politics.
During his tenure in Parliament, he served in key committees, including:
- Departmental Committee on Transport, Public Works & Housing
- Procedure & House Rules Committee
His contributions in these committees played a role in shaping legislative discussions around infrastructure and governance.
Last Public Appearance
The late MP’s last known public appearance was in November 2025, when he conducted an inspection tour of ongoing infrastructure projects within his constituency.
Since then, his absence from the public eye had raised concerns among constituents, many of whom were aware of his deteriorating health.
Controversies During His Tenure
Like many long-serving politicians, Kiaraho’s career was not without controversy.
He was previously questioned over the alleged mismanagement of approximately KSh 120 million in NG-CDF funds between 2013 and 2018.
In 2020, he also faced scrutiny from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) over similar allegations related to constituency development funds.
While these issues attracted public attention, they did not prevent him from retaining his parliamentary seat in subsequent elections.
Second MP Death in 2026
Kiaraho becomes the second sitting Member of Parliament in Kenya to die in 2026.
His death comes barely a month after that of Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Kipyegon Ng’eno, who tragically lost his life alongside five others in a helicopter crash in Nandi County on February 28.
The back-to-back losses have cast a shadow over Kenya’s political leadership, with leaders and citizens alike calling for unity and reflection.
Nation Mourns
As news of his death spreads, tributes are expected to pour in from leaders across the political divide, constituents, and Kenyans at large.
Kiaraho is remembered as a leader who served his people for over a decade, navigating both achievements and challenges throughout his political journey.
More details regarding his illness, funeral arrangements, and burial plans are expected to be released in the coming days.