Leaders eulogise the late Homa Bay senator Otieno Kajwang

A sombre mood engulfed Parliament Wednesday as leaders and staff struggled to come to terms with the sudden demise of Senator Otieno Kajwang.

The senator, who was at Parliament premises until around 9pm on Tuesday night, is reported to have been full on life.

Leaders across the political divide united in mourning the untimely death of Homabay Senator Otieno Kajwang hyping praise on a man who drew admiration in equal measure as his enemies.

They referred to Kajwang as a gallant fighter who never shied away from confronting his challenges head-on, a defender of devolution, never wavered in his political turbulence and took firm stands.

Led by Senate Speaker Ekwee Ethuro, who is in the United States of America (USA) on official duty, they expressed shock and disbelief that the jovial senator, popular known by his Mapambano tune is no more.

Ethuro's condolence message eulogized senator Kajwang as a great and prolific debator who delivered his incisive contributions with the sense of humour, candour and freshness that drove the point home convincingly and without fear of contradiction.

"He was a towering figure whose contradiction wit and commitment to devolution will solely be missed not only by the senate and by extension Parliament but also by the entire country," he stated.

He continued, "The cruel hands of death have plucked one of our very best from our midst. Kajwang was one of the leading lights in the senate and in politic, he was one of those champions of bringing back Kenya to pluralism ushering in the foundation of the second liberation."

Ethuro's counterpart Justin Muturi (National Assembly) shared his sentiments, stressing that Kajwang was a dedicated man whom he had known for many years.

"He was a dedicated servant of the people, a gallant politician and a brave and selfless leader. He will be solely missed by the entire nation."

Committee members on Energy and Agriculture where Kajwang was a member, grieved his passing saying he has left a huge gap in terms of guidance's and contribution.