Former Planning minister Awiti succumbs to cancer

Former Karachuonyo MP and Planning minister Dr Paul Adhu Awiti is dead.

Karachuonyo MP James Rege, who is the late Awiti’s cousin, confirmed that the former minister succumbed to prostrate cancer at Avenue Hospital in Kisumu, where he had been admitted last week.

“I have been with him throughout his stay at Nairobi Hospital until last week, when former Prime Minister Raila Odinga suggested that he be flown to Kisumu from where he could recuperate at Avenue Hospital,” he said.

Raila sent a condolence message to the family, describing the late Awiti as a staunch believer in the possibility of a better, more equal, just, fair and free Kenya, as he worked relentlessly for it.

“Dr Awiti’s role in what has become known as the Second Liberation is well-documented,” he said.

Raila said as Planning minister between 2001 and 2002, Dr Awiti was a great proponent of trade as opposed to aid, as the basis for development.

“He also made a passionate case for devolution of resources, power and services, and therefore laid the foundation for what we enjoy today,” he added.

Rege condoled the family, saying Awiti’s passing was not only a blow to his family but also to Homa Bay county and the Orange Democratic Movement.

Homa Bay Governor Cyprian Awiti was among the first leaders to arrive at Avenue Hospital upon learning of Awiti’s demise.

Awiti was born in 1939 in Karachuonyo village, Homa Bay County.