President William Ruto has joined the residents of Lamu County in mourning the passing of Deputy Governor Raphael Munyua Ndung’u. The President extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and residents of Lamu County in a statement on his official social media account.

Currently on a visit to China, President Ruto stated:

“I am saddened by the news of the passing away of the Deputy Governor of Lamu County, Raphael Munyua Ndung’u. He was a progressive leader who worked tirelessly for the greater good of the people of Lamu. Our love and prayers to the family, friends, and the people of Lamu County at this sad moment. Rest in Peace.”

Other political leaders have also shared their condolences:

Prime Cabinet Secretary and Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Hon. Wycliffe Musalia Mudavadi, said:

“I am deeply saddened by the untimely passing of the Deputy Governor of Lamu County, Hon. Raphael Munyua Ndung’u. I extend my deepest condolences to his family, Governor Issa Timamy, and the people of Lamu County for this profound loss. Hon. Ndung’u was a shining example of servant leadership, known for his dedication and selflessness in public service. In this difficult time, may God grant strength and peace to his loved ones and the people of Lamu. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Kikuyu Constituency MP and Leader of the Majority Party in the National Assembly, Hon. Kimani Ichung’wah, expressed:

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, leadership, and the entire community of Lamu County following the untimely passing of Deputy Governor Raphael Munyua Ndung’u. He was a committed and visionary leader whose dedication to the people of Lamu will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and the people of Lamu during this time of grief. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Kiharu MP Hon. Ndindi Nyoro also mourned the loss, stating:

“Our sincere condolences to the great people of Lamu County following the passing of the Lamu County Deputy Governor, Hon. Raphael Munyua Ndung’u, who has not been feeling well for some time. Our thoughts are with the family. We are African, and Africa is our business.”

The cause of Raphael Munyua Ndung’u’s death has not been officially disclosed, but preliminary reports suggest he had been battling a short illness. Ndung’u, a respected figure in the coastal region, had been serving as the Deputy Governor of Lamu since 2022, following his election alongside Governor Issa Timamy.

His leadership style and commitment to improving the lives of Lamu residents earned him respect both locally and nationally. He was instrumental in advancing developmental projects in Lamu, particularly in tourism, infrastructure, and health sectors. Ndung’u’s expertise proved invaluable in the county government, where he spearheaded initiatives aimed at boosting Lamu’s economy and advocated for peaceful coexistence among the diverse communities in the region.

His passing comes at a crucial time when Lamu County was gearing up for several major projects, including efforts to enhance security and boost tourism. His sudden departure leaves a significant void in the county’s leadership.

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