CS Ogamba leads Kisii leaders in mourning former Assistant Minister Ogari

Kisii leaders have mourned former Assistant Minister Simon Ogari as a humble and gentle peacemaker who served the Bomachoge people with humility.

Ogari, who served as MP for Bomachoge and later Bomachoge Chache, died on Tuesday morning at his Karen home after a long illness.

Led by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, politicians from the region said the community had lost a great and inspiring leader.

“We have lost a thoughtful leader who served his people with unwavering dedication,’’ Ogamba said in a statement.

Solicitor-General Shadrack Mose termed Ogari a visionary leader who served the public with great zeal and dedication.

Mose said that Ogari’s leadership was defined by integrity, foresight, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people of Bomachoge and Kenya.

“Ogari’s sense of duty transcended politics. Hon. Ogari was a philanthropist who stood with those in need through personal acts of kindness and generosity,’’ Mose said.

“He contributed to improving the lives of countless individuals, and his acts of generosity have left a lasting impact on all and sundry.”

Retired Kisii Governor James Ongawe said Ogari was a man with exceptional humility and dedication whose commitment to development and progress profoundly impacted his community.

“His softspoken nature and ability to unite and uplift those around him were hallmarks of his service,’’ Ongwae, who chairs the Universal Service Advisory Council board, said.

“As we reflect on his life, we remember not only his significant contributions but also the quiet strength and kindness he brought to his role. His legacy of service and unity will continue to inspire and guide us.”

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula said Ogari was a distinguished public servant who served in the 10th and 11th Parliaments.

“Hon Ogari will be remembered for his diligence, selflessness, and dedication to service, more so by the Bomachoge residents,’’ Wetang’ula said.

Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka said Ogari was a polite, kind, and selfless man who was simple to a fault.

“His legacy of dedicated service to the people of Bomachoge in the 10th and 11th Parliaments will remain a guiding example for all of us in leadership,’’ Onyonka said.

“Hon Ogari worked tirelessly to uplift the lives of his constituents, and his contributions to our community will not be forgotten.’’

Nominated Senator Essy Okenyuri termed Ogari a remarkable leader who served his constituents with commitment and dedication.

"He touched many hearts throughout his life, leading with profound humility. His legacy will remain with us for a long time to come," she said in a statement.

Ogari served as Transport assistant minister in the Grand Coalition government.

He was elected Bomachoge MP in a by-election in 2009 on the ODM ticket after beating the late Joel Onyancha in the hotly contested poll.

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga picked Ogari as an assistant minister for Transport in 2010 and later served as assistant minister of Information and Communications between 2012 and 2013.

In the 2013 general election, Ogari was reelected as the first MP for the newly created Bomachoge Chache under the 2010 Constitution.

He was a member of the ODM party.

Ogari lost his seat to Alpha Miruka during the 2017 general election.