Former Kitui West MP Francis Nyenze’s sudden death on December 5, 2017, shocked the country.
Nyenze, a veteran Kamba politician died at the Nairobi Hospital after battling colon cancer for close to a decade.
The MP's death shocked his close political friends among them former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and ex-Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka.
Nyenze, a close ally of Kalonzo was described as a smart political schemer.
Before his death, Nyenze served in various top positions in government.
Here are the top positions he once held in government:
1. Minister for Environment (1997-2001)
Nyenze was a close ally and friend of retired President Daniel Arap Moi.
He was among Moi’s secret friends from the Ukambani region.
In 1997, Moi appointed Nyenze as Minister for Environment months after the 1997's general election.
He served in the position until 2001 when he was redeployed to another ministry.
2. Minister for Heritage and Sports
He served as Heritage Minister from 2001 to 2002 when Moi’s 24-year rule was ended in the infamous 2002 general election.
3. Kitui West MP
Nyenze was first elected Kitui west MP in 1997 and served to 2017 when he suddenly died of colon cancer.
4. Leader of Minority
In 2013, Nyenze was appointed as the Leader of Minority in the National Assembly.
He served in the position until his death on December 5, 2017.
Nyenze's death was described as a blow to Kalonzo’s 2022's presidential bid.
The late MP's wife Edith Nyenze succeeded him in a by-election as Kitui West lawmaker.
#hivisasaoriginal
#historynow