As Kenya navigates a year marked by political changes and economic challenges, the nation has also been struck by the loss of several prominent figures across various fields.

From politics to journalism, law to academia, the country mourns the passing of nine influential Kenyans in 2025.

Their contributions have left indelible marks on society, and their deaths have evoked nationwide grief.

1. Former IEBC boss Wafula Chebukati (1961 – 20 February 2025)

Former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson Wafula Chebukati died at 11 pm on Thursday, February 20, 2025.

Chebukati had been admitted to a hospital in Nairobi where he had been undergoing treatment for nearly a week.

The Former IEBC boss had been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit at the hospital. What Chebukati was ailing from still remains private.

Chebukati who was aged 64 at the time of his death.

Chebukati served as IEBC chair for a full term of six years and retired in January 2023.

He presided over the 2017 and 2022 General Elections. 

2. Leonard Mambo Mbotela (29 May 1940 – February 7, 2025)

A legendary broadcaster whose voice was synonymous with Kenyan radio for decades, Leonard Mambo Mbotela passed away on February 7.

Best known for his iconic program Je, Huu Ni Uungwana?, Mbotela was revered for his eloquence and dedication to fostering good morals through media.

His passing has been described as the end of an era in Kenyan broadcasting.

3. Baringo senator William Cheptumo (25 December 1967 – February 15, 2025)

Baringo Senator William Cheptumo died suddenly on February 15, sending shockwaves through the political sphere.

A respected legislator known for championing devolution and human rights, Cheptumo had served in various leadership roles, including as Chair of the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee in Parliament.

Tributes poured in from colleagues who hailed his integrity and commitment to his constituents.

4. Malava MP Moses Malulu Injendi (16 June 1967 – February 17, 2025)

Malava Member of Parliament Moses Malulu Injendi passed away on February 17 following a brief illness.

Injendi was a vocal advocate for education and healthcare reforms in Kakamega County.

His death leaves a significant void in local leadership, with many praising his relentless efforts to uplift marginalized communities.

5. Prof. Bethwell Ogot (3 August 1929 – 30 January 2025)

One of Africa’s most distinguished historians, Professor Bethwell Ogot, died on January 30 at the age of 95.

Renowned for his extensive research on East African history, Ogot’s work reshaped understanding of pre-colonial and post-colonial narratives.

His passing is considered a monumental loss to the academic community both locally and internationally.

6. Former Busia Deputy Governor Moses Mulomi (1955 – January 28, 2025)

Former Busia Deputy Governor Moses Mulomi died of cardiac arrest on January 28 while on his way to Nairobi to attend a board meeting.

Former Busia Governor Sospeter Ojaamong disclosed that the deceased developed health complications while traveling to Nairobi.

Mulomi Mulomi contested the Busia gubernatorial race in the August 9, 2022 General Election on a Democratic Action Party Kenya (DAP-K) ticket but lost to the incumbent, Paul Otuoma of ODM.

Known for his hands-on approach to agricultural development and healthcare initiatives in Busia County, Mulomi was a respected figure in grassroots governance.

His efforts in enhancing food security programs earned him widespread recognition.

7. Judy Thongori (9 June 1963 – 15 January, 2025)

Celebrated lawyer and women’s rights activist Judy Thongori passed away on January 15 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Thongori was instrumental in advocating for gender equality and spearheaded several landmark cases on domestic violence and discrimination.

Her passing prompted an outpouring of grief from Kenya’s legal fraternity and civil society.

8. Rasna Warah (1962 – 11 January, 2025)

Veteran journalist and author Rasna Warah died suddenly on January 11, leaving behind a legacy of incisive journalism and thought-provoking literature.

Warah was known for her critical analysis of urban development, human rights, and governance issues.

Her colleagues remembered her as a fearless voice dedicated to exposing the truth.

9. Roseline Odede (1966 – 3 January 2025)

Renowned human rights lawyer Roseline Odede passed away on January 3 after a short fearless battle with cancer.

Odede, the former Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), was a staunch defender of children’s rights and had recently been involved in high-profile cases addressing gender-based violence.

Her advocacy work earned her both national and international accolades.