Former Lugari and Likuyani Member of Parliament Dr Enoch Kibunguchi has died.
Sources close to the family confirmed that Dr Kibunguchi passed away on Monday night while receiving treatment at a hospital in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County. The family said a comprehensive statement would be issued at 9am.
Several political leaders and residents from Western Kenya have since sent messages of condolence, describing him as a dedicated leader and respected medical professional.
Enoch Kibunguchi’s Political Journey
Dr Kibunguchi served as the Member of Parliament for Likuyani Constituency for 15 years, from 2007 to 2022, after first entering Parliament as the MP for Lugari Constituency before its subdivision.
He was elected on the FORD Kenya party ticket and remained a dominant political figure in Kakamega County politics for over two decades.
In the 2022 General Election, Kibunguchi lost the Likuyani seat to Innocent Mugabe, but had publicly announced plans to reclaim the seat in the 2027 elections.
You can read more Kenyan political developments on Sauce.co.ke’s politics section.
Career as a Medical Doctor
Beyond politics, Dr Kibunguchi was a renowned medical doctor who operated a clinic at the same Eldoret hospital where he later passed away. Colleagues described him as a hands-on physician who continued serving patients even while active in politics.
According to the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC), many Kenyan doctors in leadership have played dual roles in public service and healthcare
Survived Gun Attack in 2020
In 2020, Dr Kibunguchi narrowly escaped death after a gun attack linked to political rivalry, during which his driver was fatally shot. The incident shocked the region and heightened concerns over political violence.
Kenya has previously recorded politically linked violence, according to reports by Human Rights Watch
Historic Rivalry With Cyrus Jirongo
Dr Kibunguchi made national headlines in 2002 after defeating the late Cyrus Jirongo for the Lugari parliamentary seat on a NARC ticket. Jirongo later reclaimed the seat in 2007, serving until 2013.
Jirongo, who died last week, is scheduled to be laid to rest in Lugari on December 30, marking a significant moment in the constituency’s political history.
Nation Mourns a Veteran Leader
As Kenyans await the family’s official statement, tributes continue to pour in from leaders across the political divide, praising Dr Kibunguchi’s legacy in politics, healthcare, and public service.
