Veteran Coast politician Japhet Baya dies at age 70

Coast politicians are mourning veteran politician Japhet Kanyume Baya, an ally of President Uhuru Kenyatta, who died on Saturday.

He died at Mariakani Hospital in Kilifi County after a short illness.

Mr Baya, who died at the age of 70, is best remembered for leading former councillors from Coast and North Eastern regions to push for payment of their terminal dues.

He served as the chair of the defunct Kilifi County Council between 1997 and 2002. The politician was a key Coast Kanu official and former President Moi's political strategist.

Until his death, Baya who led President Kenyatta's first presidential bid in 2002 and in 2013, had strong links with Jubilee.

Coast Parliamentary Group Chairman and Kaloleni MP Gunga Mwinga, Rabai MP William Kamoti, Gonzi Rai (Kinango) and JAP Chairman Nelson Dzuya condoled with the family Monday.

"I have received the news of his death with profound shock and disbelief. He was among my political advisors," said Mr Mwinga.