Former Laikipia North MP Mathew Lempurkel is dead
By Faith Lagat, August 24, 2025The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party has confirmed the death of former Laikipia North Member of Parliament (MP) Mathew Lempurkel Lekidime, who died following a road accident.
The party confirmed the news on Sunday, August 24, 2025, describing the late legislator as a fearless leader who served under the ODM ticket in the 11th Parliament from 2013 to 2017.
In a statement, ODM conveyed its condolences, saying, “We mourn the passing of Hon. Mathew Lempurkel Lekidime, the former MP for Laikipia North in the 11th Parliament under the ODM party ticket from 2013 to 2017, through a road accident. May God’s peace and comfort be with his family and the people of Laikipia during this time of grief.”
According to reports, the accident occurred a week earlier in Rongai, Nakuru County. His untimely passing has been received with shock across the political divide, with leaders recalling his spirited defence of the Maa community and his firm voice in Parliament.
Tributes
Despite sharp political differences, leaders from various parties joined ODM in mourning the late lawmaker. Democratic Congress Party (DCP) leader and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua paid tribute to Lempurkel, noting his contribution to national and community affairs.
“I have learnt of the untimely passing on of Hon. Mathew Lempurkel with a heavy heart. Hon. Lempurkel was a member of the DCP and former Member of Parliament for Laikipia North. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may Almighty God grant strength, comfort, and fortitude to his family, loved ones, and all who cherished him during this moment of grief,” Gachagua posted on X.
He accompanied his tribute with images from a recent “Wamunyoro” event, reflecting his continued engagements with the Mount Kenya region while remembering Lempurkel’s legacy.
Legacy of advocacy
Lempurkel is remembered for his fearless representation of the Maa community and his vocal defence of marginalised groups. His death marks the eighth time since 2017 that a prominent Kenyan politician has passed while in or after holding office, a trend that has raised concern, though no clear link to specific causes has been established.
The late MP’s legacy, both as a leader and advocate, has been acknowledged across political divides. As prayers pour in for his family and constituents, leaders agree that his contribution to the Maa community and to national politics will remain etched in memory.