Ex-minister Nyachae’s wife dies in Nairobi

Former Cabinet minister Simeon Nyachae’s wife, Esther, has died.

Family members told the Nation on Tuesday that Mrs Nyachae died on Tuesday morning in Nairobi.

“She has been ailing for some time," said family member Jeremiah Masakara.

Mr Masakara, however, refused to speculate on the exact details of Mrs Nyachae's demise.

"We do not have exact details on the matter. The family members who are in Nairobi will reveal further details as soon as they are ready," he said.

Hezron Nyandusi, another family member, said they will soon meet to make funeral arrangements.

"It is still too early to say anything regarding funeral arrangements. The immediate family will inform you once they make them," he said.

When the Nation visited the family home in Kisii County, the mood was sombre.

Meanwhile, leaders from Kisii County have sent their condolences.

Kisii County Senator Chris Obure said death had dealt the Nyachae family a "cruel blow".

"We wish to express our deepest sympathies with the Nyachae family at this time of great sorrow," he said.

"We hope that this tragedy will not dampen Mr Nyachae’s enthusiasm and energy for providing valuable leadership to our community as a senior and able leader," he said.

Deputy Governor Joash Maangi described the late Mrs Nyachae as a hardworking, humble and dedicated individual, who will be missed by his family.

"We are with the family at this time of sorrow. May God comfort them in this time of grief,” he said.

Ford People party chairman Albert Nyaundi also expressed his shock at the news.

“All party members have learnt with profound sorrow of the death this morning of the wife of our party patron Simeon Nyachae," he said.

"We stand with our patron and his family in mourning the death of Mama Esther Nyachae," he added.