Lamu Deputy Governor Raphael Ndung’u is Dead
Lamu County was plunged into deep mourning on Friday following the tragic passing of its Deputy Governor, Raphael Munyua Ndung’u. The news of his demise has sent shockwaves through the coastal county, where he was highly respected and admired for his dedication to public service.
Deputy Governor Ndung’u had been battling an illness before he succumbed, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and commitment to his community.
His death was announced by Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, who expressed his heartfelt condolences to the people of Lamu and the family of the deceased. “Our sincere condolences to the great people of Lamu County following the passing on of the Lamu County Deputy Governor Hon Raphael Munyua Ndung’u,” Nyoro stated in a heartfelt post. “Our thoughts are with the family,” he added, underscoring the shared grief felt across the region.
Raphael Ndung’u’s journey to the Deputy Governor’s office was marked by determination and political acumen. He ascended to the position after running a successful campaign alongside Governor Issa Timamy on a joint Amani National Congress (ANC) ticket in the 2022 gubernatorial election.
Their victory was a comeback for Timamy, who had previously lost the governorship to Fahim Twaha in 2017 after serving one term. Ndung’u’s partnership with Timamy was seen as pivotal in securing the win, marking a significant chapter in Lamu’s political history.
Ndung’u’s political career, however, was not without its challenges. Before becoming Deputy Governor, he served as the County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Health Services and Environment under Governor Twaha.
He took the oath of office on October 12, 2017, but his tenure was cut short when he was dismissed on September 26, 2018, after less than a year in service. Ndung’u challenged his dismissal in court, and the ruling on September 20, 2018, declared his removal “unlawful, null, and void.” The court ordered his reinstatement, only for him to be dismissed again just two days later, reflecting the tumultuous nature of his career in public service.
As Lamu County mourns the loss of its Deputy Governor, Raphael Munyua Ndung’u will be remembered as a resilient leader who fought for his place in public service and left an indelible mark on the county’s political landscape.
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Lamu Deputy Governor Raphael Ndung’u is Dead
