The National Assembly has celebrated James Osogo, who was one of the last surviving members of the first Cabinet of the founding President, the late Mzee Jomo Kenyatta.
In his communication to the House, Speaker Moses Wetang’ula said Osogo will be remembered for his leadership standards and promoting ethics.
“He was a respected and visionary public servant, uncompromising and an astute thinker whose service to the community was unmatched,” he said.
He added that Osogo’s ascent to national politics and stellar political career will forever serve as an inspiration to many current and future leaders.
“On your behalf and that of the entire Parliamentary fraternity, and indeed the people of Kenya, I convey our heartfelt condolences to the family of Osogo, the people of Busia, all his relatives and friends for losing such a gallant national leader,” he stated.
Osogo, 91, passed away on August 15 at the Aga Khan Hospital in Kisumu where he had been receiving treatment after a series of illness.
His political career started in 1963 when he was elected Member of House of Representatives for Ruambwa Constituency, now part of Budalangi and Funyula constituencies.
Osogo was among Kenya’s first Cabinet in 1964 at independence.
He first served as an assistant minister for Agriculture until 1966 when he was elevated to become the minister for Information and Broadcasting from 1966 to 1969.
He later held various ministerial portfolios including serving as minister for Commerce and Industry from 1969-1973, minister for Agriculture in 1970, minister for Local Government 1973-1974 and minister for Health in 1974.
He was also the Deputy Leader of Government Business in 1978.