Dr. Simon Ogari Arama, the former Member of Parliament for Bomachoge, has died at the age of 68.
The two time legislator passed away at his home in Karen, Nairobi, at around 5am on Tuesday, September 10. The cause of his death has not yet been disclosed.
Ogari Arama, a close ally of veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga, was a prominent figure in Kenyan politics.
Ogari, who vied under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and served in parliament between 2008 and 2017, for the 10th and 11th parliament.
His passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the political spectrum.
Senator Richard Onyonka, who was a personal friend and a colleague of Ogari Arama, expressed deep sorrow at his death. “He was a polite, kind, and selfless man who was simple to a fault,” Onyonka posted on X.
“Besides being a good leader and colleague, he was my personal friend for many years. He was a good man whom I will personally miss in his death.”
Onyonka lauded Ogari Arama’s legacy of dedicated service, stating, “His legacy of dedicated service to the people of Bomachoge in the 10th and Bomachoge Chache in the 11th Parliaments will remain a guiding example for all of us in leadership.”
Nominated Senator Esther Okenyuri also took to social media to mourn the former MP. “He was a remarkable leader who served his constituents with commitment and dedication,” she wrote.
“He touched many hearts throughout his life leading with profound humility. His legacy will remain with us for a long time to come. It has been my honour and good fortune to have known him.”
Ogari Arama’s tenure in Parliament was marked by his unwavering commitment to his constituents and his role in shaping regional politics. His death is a significant loss to the political community and to those who knew him personally.
Further details about the circumstances surrounding his death and arrangements for his memorial will be updated as they become available.