Veteran politician John Keen is dead.
Keen died at Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi at 1.30am on Sunday while undergoing treatment.
He was admitted at the hospital on Thursday after falling ill.
President Uhuru Kenyatta has sent a message of condolence to the family of the late John Keen who passed on Sunday morning.
The President said he was deeply saddened to learn of the death of John Keen.
“I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Hon. John Keen earlier today. Few Kenyans can claim a life of such courage, sacrifice, or achievement’ he said.
He added “In colonial times, he stood firm in defence of African rights. By 1962, his energy and devotion to nationalist ideals had made him KANU’s organising secretary. In that position, he prepared the party for the elections which saw an African government take power in this country for the first time”.
The President described the late politician as a man who fought for the liberty of Kenyans and served Kenya selflessly.
“His name will not soon be forgotten. May God rest his soul in perpetual peace, and may He console the family, and grant them the courage to bear this loss”.
During his political life Keen served not only as the Member of Parliament for Kajiado North but also the KANU organizing secretary in 1962.
Several political leaders took to twitter to mourn Keen’s passing.
Deputy President William Ruto described the late Keen as a defender and campaigner of human rights especially those of the Maa Community.
“He was on the forefront of championing democracy and freedom of expression. He served the people of Kenya diligently and with passion.
“He was an able, dedicated and hardworking public servant. My condolences goes to his family and constituents, whom he ably represented,” Mr Ruto tweeted.
The late Keen leaves behind four wives. The body is lying at the Lee Funeral Home.