ODM Governor Loses Mother-in-Law

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa is mourning the death of his mother-in-law, Mama Juliana Nakhumicha Kasilly. 

In a statement on Tuesday, September 8, the governor expressed his condolences to his wife, Kakamega County First Lady Prof. Janet Kassilly Barasa, and the entire family following the death of their beloved family member.

"It is with a heavy heart that I mourn the passing of my beloved mother-in-law, Mama Juliana Nakhumicha Kasilly. I share in the pain of my wife, First Lady, Prof. Janet Kassilly Barasa, and our entire family at this difficult time," he wrote.

Barasa described Mama Kasilly as a woman who was known for her grace, warmth and quiet strength, saying her devotion to her family was deeply felt.

He said her death had left a significant void in the family, adding that they would continue to cherish the memories she left behind.

"Mama was a woman of grace, warmth and quiet strength. Her devotion to her family was always felt, and her absence leaves a space that words cannot easily fill. We will miss her and cherish the memories she leaves behind," he added.

Elsewhere, Prof. Lukoye Atwoli, the son of Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli, is mourning the death of his wife, Maureen Nyadida-Lukoye, following her battle with cancer.

In an update earlier Tuesday, Lukoye shared the heartbreaking news as he paid tribute to his wife.

"I will struggle to deal with this. So long, my dear. So long," he wrote.

Maureen and Lukoye had been married for nearly 20 years, with the couple marking their 17th wedding anniversary in April 2022. 

The couple had also spoken publicly about Maureen’s cancer journey and the challenges they faced following her diagnosis. 

During an earlier interview, Maureen said she did not feel alone as she confronted the illness, acknowledging the support she received from her husband throughout the difficult period.

Maureen was also involved in the Lukoye Atwoli Foundation, where she was listed as a member.

At the same time, the Deputy Director of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), John Onyango, is mourning the death of his wife.

In an update on Monday, September 7, the Kenya Police Service said Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Eliud Lagat, accompanied by senior officers from the Kenya Police Service and the DCI, visited Onyango following the death of his wife.

"The Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, Mr Eliud Lagat, accompanied by senior officers from the Kenya Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, visited Deputy Director of the DCI, John Onyango, SAIG, following the passing of his wife," the service wrote.

According to KPS, the visit was aimed at standing with Onyango and his family during the difficult period of mourning following the loss of his wife.

"On behalf of the entire Kenya Police Service, DIG Lagat conveyed his condolences to Mr Onyango and his family and assured them of the Service’s support during this period of mourning," the service added.