Margaret Kawuki, a nominated member of the Taita Taveta County Assembly, has died, the Jubilee Party announced on Thursday, October 29.

Preliminary reports say she died in Mombasa County while receiving medical treatment, Kenyans.co.ke reported. The cause of her death has not been made public, and the family and party had not announced funeral arrangements by Thursday evening.

Kawuki was serving her first term in the county assembly after she was nominated on the Jubilee ticket following the 2022 General Election.

Jubilee mourns 'a courageous voice'

In a condolence statement, Jubilee Party Secretary General Moitalel ole Kenta described her as "a committed public servant, a champion of democracy, equality and the rights of women" and "a courageous voice for those who are often unheard".

He said her death was a loss to her family, her colleagues in the assembly, the people of Taita Taveta and the wider democratic movement in the country. The party described her as "a sister in service and a fellow patriot whose journey was cut tragically short".

County leaders pay tribute

Taita Taveta Governor Andrew Mwadime described Kawuki as a dedicated, humble and committed servant and sent his condolences to her family, the county assembly and her colleagues.

Voi MP Abdi Chome said she was a hard-working leader whose background as a businesswoman had earned her respect in both leadership and business circles.

"Her contribution to the people of Taita Taveta County will be remembered with appreciation," Chome said.

Her public service

Before joining the assembly, Kawuki served on the board of the Taita Taveta County Education Fund, which supports bursaries for needy learners, and on the county tourism board. As a nominated MCA, she was among the members who represent special interest groups, including women, in the county assembly.

What happens to her seat

Nominated seats in county assemblies are allocated to parties according to their strength in the assembly. When a nominated MCA dies, the party that nominated them is expected to fill the seat from its list through the electoral commission, rather than through a by-election. Jubilee has not yet said who will replace her.

Her death comes as the county assembly, like others across the country, prepares for the final year of its term ahead of the August 2027 General Election.

Photos: Kenyans.co.ke (Jubilee Party sign); People Daily (Margaret Kawuki). Thumbnail design: HAMASTA MEDIA.