UPDATE: President Uhuru Kenyatta mourned Former Kibwezi MP Kalembe Ndile as a witty, determined and practical politician whose rise in life was as a result of sheer hard work.
“It is unfortunate that death has taken from us the Hon Kalembe Ndile in his prime. He was a lively politician who loved and worked with everyone, and always held the interests of the country at heart.
“With the death of Mheshimiwa Kalembe, our country has lost an astute fighter for human rights. We all remember how passionately he fought for the plight of squatters in the country," eulogised Uhuru.
Deputy President William Ruto, on the other hand eulogised Ndile as a master of equality justice.
"Kalembe Ndile devoted his life to serve the people of Kibwezi. He was a master of equal justice who set an incredible example of service to all. He will best be remembered for his modesty, insights, independent voice and fighting for the rights of the underprivileged," stated Ruto.
Former Kibwezi MP Kalembe Ndile has passed away.
Reports that surfaced on Sunday, May 30, indicated that the vocal politician passed away while receiving treatment at the Nairobi Hospital.
His family revealed that the former Tourism and Wildlife assistant Minister had been battling a long illness at the city hospital.
His body was taken to Lee Funeral Home as funeral arrangements kicked off.
Reports indicated that the politician succumbed while receiving treatment for liver complications on Sunday at around 5:35 a.m. He was aged 57 years.
The politician's family explained that he had been hospitalised until two weeks ago but after release, his condition deteriorated.
“He was discharged from hospital two weeks ago, but his health deteriorated later and he was taken back to hospital. He has passed on,” confirmed the kin.
Condolences began pouring in from various leaders following the death announcement.
"Go well, Kalembe Ndile. Sad Ending, to a politician who used humour and other techniques to remain relevant even after being voted out. Largely a good guy," mourned Itumbi.
In April, Ndile had expressed his interest in replacing Senator Isaac Mwaura as the People Living with Disability representative in Parliament following his road accident in 2017 that left his right thigh broken.
Ndile was involved in the accident in September 2017, when his vehicle collided head on another car at Devki area along the Nairobi-Mombasa highway.
He served as an assistant minister for Tourism and Wildlife during former President Mwai Kibaki's tenure.
After leaving his government position Ndile ventured into the construction industry selling sand and ballast. At some point, he worked as the director of Tanathi Waterworks.
The 57year old was also the founder of The Independent Party (TIP) which was dissolved in 2016 to form the Jubilee Party.
