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Parliament holds emotional candlelight tribute for fallen staffer

Parliament holds emotional candlelight tribute for fallen staffer
An orange candle burns on a black background with a reflection copy space: Image used for illustation only: PHOTO/Pexels

Parliamentarians and staff came together on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at Nyayo Stadium’s basketball arena to honour the life of Nancy Atieno Ogola, a National Assembly staff member who passed away on Saturday, November 15, 2025.

The ceremony offered a moment for collective mourning and reflection on Ogola’s contributions both at work and in sports.

“The Parliament fraternity converged at Nyayo Stadium (Basketball arena) for a moving candlelight ceremony in honour of Nancy Atieno Ogola, a National Assembly staff member who died on Saturday, November 15, 2025. Ogola served as a Telephone Assistant in the Human Resource Development Department and was celebrated for her vibrant spirit both at work and on the sports fields where she excelled,” the statement reads

Candle lighting at Nyayo Stadium’s basketball arena: PHOTO/facebook.com/ParliamentKE

The tribute drew Members of Parliament, Senators, parliamentary staff, sports officials, and colleagues who described Ogola as hardworking, talented, and exceptionally committed. Candles lit the arena, creating a sombre atmosphere as attendees celebrated a life that had touched many.

Her active participation in volleyball, basketball, netball, football, and tug-of-war made her one of the most versatile athletes in the Parliamentary Service sporting fraternity. Senator Veronica Maina highlighted her impact during the ceremony.

“Nancy represented the true spirit of public service, dedicated to work and committed to excellence in sports. Her loss is not just for her department, but for all of us in Parliament,” the statement read.

Candle lighting at Nyayo Stadium’s basketball arena: PHOTO/facebook.com/ParliamentKE

Senator Maina further emphasised Ogola’s ability to unite those around her. “She had a way of uniting people. Whether in the office corridors or on the court, Nancy created an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness,” the statement read.

Also present was Moses Mbuthia, the Nairobi Branch Volleyball Chairman, who praised her commitment to the sport. He described Ogola as a gem in the volleyball community.

Her colleagues from the Human Resource Development Department remembered her as cheerful, dependable, and always ready to assist. They said her absence leaves a significant professional and social gap.

“Colleagues from the Human Resource Development Department paid glowing tributes, remembering Ogola as cheerful, dependable and ever ready to assist. They said her death leaves a significant gap both professionally and socially,” the statement reads

Candle lighting at Nyayo Stadium’s basketball arena: PHOTO/facebook.com/ParliamentKE

The ceremony included prayers, hymns, a moment of silence, and the symbolic lighting of candles, with many attendees moved to tears. As burial preparations continue, MPs and staff pledged support to Ogola’s family during this difficult time.

Parliament describes Nancy Atieno Ogola as a devoted public servant, an outstanding sportswoman, and a cherished friend.

“Nancy Atieno Ogola will be remembered as a devoted public servant, an outstanding sportswoman and a cherished friend whose legacy will continue to shine in the hearts of those she served alongside,” the statement reads

Among the MPs present were Eli Letepila, John Waluke, Raphael Wanjala, Paul Nzengu, Oku Kaunya, Elsie Muhanda, and Senator Hamida Kibwana.

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Kiprono Keileb

K.K.

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