Editor's Review

  • The MP died on Saturday with initial reports alleging Covid-19 diagnosis. 
  • President Uhuru Kenyatta is among leaders who have mourned the fallen lawmaker. 

New contradicting details have emerged regarding the final moments of Matungu Member of Parliament Justus Murunga.

Murunga died on Saturday evening at the St. Mary's Hospital in Mumias. Earlier reports indicated that the lawmaker had died from the coronavirus.  

However, accounts from people close to him hours before he passed away have issued contradicting details.  

His bodyguard and domestic workers recounted the MP being in a cheerful mood after hosting guests at his Makunda home on Saturday.  

He was in his house, taking a flight of stairs when he felt weak and began having breathing difficulties. The 60-year old who has been battling diabetes and hypertension collapsed moments later.  

"He even walked around the compound at around 6pm with his employees," his brother Henry Wakisia said. 

After he collapsed, the MP was rushed to Matungu Subcounty Hospital, but the facility lacked supplementary oxygen. He was then transferred to St Mary's Hospital in Mumias, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival. 

On Sunday, the MP's remains were moved to the Lee Funeral Home in Nairobi. He survived by a widow, Christabel, and eight children. 

President Uhuru Kenyatta on Sunday led the political class in mourning the lawmaker.  

"In this hour of sorrow, I convey my deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to Hon Murunga's family, relatives and the people of Matungu constituency. My thoughts and prayers are with you," Uhuru said. 

On his part, Deputy President William Ruto termed Murunga as a close friend who was focused and hardworking with a vision for his constituents.  

"Mheshimiwa Murunga was steadfast, amiable and loving. We will miss his firmness, wise counsel and vibrancy to unite and transform the Western region," Ruto said. 

By press time, reports on his Covid-19 status had not been ascertained.