Kamoti’s sudden death elicits anxiety

A dark cloud of sadness has gripped Kilifi county and the Coast region following the sudden death of Rabai MP William Kamoti in a road accident on Sunday night.

The MP died after his car collided head-on with another vehicle at Stage ya Maziwa in Mnarani near Kilifi town.

Kamoti, a lawyer who was serving his second term as Rabai MP, died just hours after being cleared by IEBC to defend his seat in the August 9 General Election.

Kilifi North sub-county police commander Jonathan Koech said the accident occurred at around 9.30 pm when the MP was heading to a meeting with ODM Kilifi governor aspirant Gideon Mung’aro.

President Uhuru Kenyatta was among leaders who sent messages of condolence to the family, friends and constituents.

The President described the parliamentarian as a top legal mind and a devoted, progressive leader with an impressive development record.

“It is very unfortunate and painful that we’ve suddenly lost William Kamoti, a progressive and astute leader that represented the people of Rabai constituency in Parliament with great distinction.

Kamoti leaves behind a strong legacy of development and public service, especially in the area of education where he initiated several schools in his constituency,” Uhuru said.

Deputy President William Ruto eulogised Kamoti as friendly, hardworking and diligent. “Condolences to the people of Rabai following the death of your MP, William Kamoti. Kamoti was friendly, hardworking and diligent. We pray for the family at this sad time,” said Ruto.

ODM replacement

The MP was buried yesterday at his home in Kaliang’ombe in Rabai in accordance with Islamic traditions.

Speaking at the funeral, ODM leader Raila Odinga said the news of the MP’s passing was shocking. He said he met him two weeks ago in Nairobi to discuss Coast leadership matters.

Considering that Kamoti’s death came few hours after he was cleared by IEBC to vie for the Rabai MP seat on an ODM ticket, Raila asked Kilifi leaders to consult with the MP’s family and pick a person who will fly the party’s flag in Rabai.

“I want to ask local leaders and family to discuss and decide on the person who will fly the flag of ODM in Rabai,” said Raila.

Head on collision

In a statement, National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi said Kamoti’s death had robbed Kilifi County and the House a progressive leader who passionately answered to the call of duty.

“On behalf of the staff of the National Assembly and indeed on my own behalf, I wish to convey heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Kamoti Mwamkale, the people of Rabai constituency, all his relatives and friends,” Muturi said.

The speaker constituted an ad-hoc committee led by Ganze MP Teddy Mwambire to assist the family and coordinate burial arrangements.

Mwambire worked alongside others including Malindi MP Aisha Jumwa, Owen Baya (Kilifi North), Abdulswamad Nassir (Mvita), Paul Katana (Kaloleni), Ken Chonga (Kilifi South) and Kilifi Woman Rep Gertrude Mbeyu.

The MP’s driver, who is admitted to the Kilifi County Hospital, said the car rolled after it collided with a lorry which was heading towards Mombasa.

Eric Nyamawi, an eyewitness, said they spent over 30 minutes trying to get help.

“I saw the vehicle rolling. When we reached where it landed, we saw two people. One of them was lying outside with his legs trapped in the car. The driver was on his seat. We rescued them but unfortunately the other person, whom we did not know was the MP, died before we got assistance to take him to hospital,” said Nyamawi.

Kilifi leaders described Kamoti as a dedicated leader who had the interest of his people at heart.

Mung’aro said Kamoti was a true servant leader. “Coast region has lost a great leader. We will all remember him as a leader who sacrificed to serve everyone regardless of party affiliation.”

Mwambire said Kamoti was one of the few leaders who had not been tainted by corruption.

“I remember him for his politeness and his sober mature politics. Kilifi county has lost a good leader,” said Mwambire.

Baya said Kamoti’s death was a big loss to the county.

“He was an eloquent leader who offered guidance to many MPs in Parliament. He was humble and dedicated to serve his people. It is such a sad day to all of us,” said Baya.

— Reporting by Reuben Mwambingu, Ronald Mwadzombo and Harrison Kivisu