Former Cabinet Minister John Koech Passes Away at 79

Mr John Kipsang Koech, a previous Cabinet Minister and Member of Parliament representing Chepalungu constituency, passed away due to prolonged illness at the age of 79. The former minister succumbed to his ailment at Nairobi Hospital, where he was under medical care; subsequently, his remains were transferred to Lee Funeral Home. In a brief announcement, the family disclosed that their beloved member took his last breath post battling sickness and promised more details soon. Isaac Ruto, ex-Governor of Bomet County and present vice-chairman of JSC, visited the funeral parlor alongside the bereaved family upon transferring the deceased’s body for safekeeping on Tuesday. Notably, Ruto contested numerous times against another prominent figure named Mr Sang over almost twenty years. Born in Segemik within Olbutyo area in today's Bomet County, Koech completed primary schooling locally then continued secondary studies at Tenwek High School prior enrolling at Makerere University located in Uganda for undergraduate economics program concluding graduation year in 1972. His career path saw him climb administrative ranks starting off as Assistant Minister during Former President Daniel arap Moi era progressing eventually becoming Road & Public Works Ministry head. Additionally, he held international diplomatic roles such as UNEP Permanent Representer after losing parliamentary race in '97 General Election to budding politico Mr Isaac Kiprono Ruto. Re-elected again as legislator via 2002 polls, Koech secured appointment by Ex-President Mwai Kibaki serving tenure as EAC portfolio holder. However, fate turned unfavorable once more defeating Dr. Ruto in subsequent electoral round four years later ending hopes of further governmental service despite attempting bid for Gubernatorial candidacy seven years ago. Elected initially to legislature way back in 1979 overcoming incumbent MP Kimunai Soi only to lose reelection attempt eight years down line followed shortly thereafter by successful return campaign culminating win in next cycle yet failing ultimately contest six years onward. Condolence Messages Current Head State William Ruto together National Legislative Body Presiding Officer Moses Wetangula extended national grief acknowledging loss: "Memories linger vividly concerning profound impact rendered towards advancement of academic sphere - notably presiding investigative panel yielding landmark report advocating transformative pedagogical adjustments inclusive creation specialized curricula addressing learner disabilities," observed Wetangula reflecting fondness recalling pivotal contributions left behind impacting modern-day discussions around learning systems domestically." Ruto emphasized integrity maintained throughout official duties without indulgence typical high-ranking officials opting modest lifestyle instead: "Ambassador Koech epitomized disciplined civil servant leaving indelible mark cherished deeply community-wide remarked Governor Hillary Barchok expressing sentiments sorrowfully conveying condolences relatives Wednesday afternoon." Chepalungu Constituent Lawmaker Victor Koech known professionally mandazi bread producer expressed deep personal connection highlighting regional achievements emphasizing social economic uplifts realized directly attributable efforts exertions driven passion governance rooted genuine concern populace welfare. "The nation mourns esteemed statesperson renowned steadfast advocate positive transformation societal fabric particularly rural communities represented tirelessly committed residence acknowledged Koech remembering compassionate stewardship impactful initiatives spearheaded enhancing livelihood quality regionally nationally globally." Senator Sigei echoed similar sentiment underscoring lasting imprint created spanning generations influencing broader landscape outside district boundaries specifically agriculture advancements promoting cultivation crops like sweet potato varieties plus fodder species introducing beneficial practices benefiting farming sectors extensively. Syndigate.info ).