President William Ruto has led the nation in mourning the passing of former Cabinet Minister John Koech, who died on Tuesday at a Nairobi hospital aged 79 after a long illness.
In his message of condolence, Ruto described Koech as a dedicated and hard-working servant.
“Mheshimiwa John Koech was a hardworking leader who served the people of Chepalungu with dedication,” Ruto said in a statement.
“He was focused, progressive, and development-conscious. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this sad moment.”
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula also paid tribute, saying Koech’s death has cast “yet another deep shadow” over the country.
“My thoughts remain with his family, the people of Bomet County, and all who drew strength, wisdom, and inspiration from his leadership,” Wetang'ula said.
“Kenya has lost a statesman whose legacy endures far beyond his years in public service.”
Recalling his time serving alongside Koech during President Mwai Kibaki’s administration, Wetang’ula described him as “a man of rare political clarity, principled, astute, and unwavering in his pursuit of national progress.”
Koech was lauded for his commitment to education, particularly in the former Kericho and Bomet districts, where he was instrumental in improving access and equity.
“Today, we mourn not only a public servant but a builder of futures, a patriot, and a man who carried the weight of leadership with dignity and clarity of purpose,” Wetang’ula added.
Born in Olbutyo, Bomet County, Koech began his education at local schools before joining Tenwek High School for both "O" and "A" levels.
He later earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Makerere University in Uganda, graduating in 1972.
He served under both Presidents Daniel Moi and Mwai Kibaki, holding key roles including Minister for Roads and Public Works and, later, Minister for East African Community.
He was also Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) a rare honor reflecting both his political stature and diplomatic skill.
Koech’s political career began in 1979 when he was elected as the Member of Parliament for Chepalungu, defeating former MP Kimunai Soi.
He served until 1997, when he lost to newcomer Isaac Rutto.
However, he made a political comeback in 2002 and was appointed Minister for East African Community under Kibaki’s administration.
After his 1997 electoral loss, Moi appointed him as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), a prestigious ambassadorial role.
His final major political role came under President Kibaki, who named him Minister for East African Community in 2002- a period that coincided with Kenya’s renewed commitment to regional integration and institutional reform.
However, despite his decades in leadership, Koech faded from public view after his 2007 defeat.
His last significant political bid came in 2017 when he contested, unsuccessfully, for the Bomet gubernatorial seat in the Jubilee Party primaries.
Unlike many of his contemporaries, Koech did not rebrand as a political pundit, advisor, or public commentator.
He did not return through appointments or party leadership. In an era when visibility is often mistaken for relevance, his silence stood out.
