Former Laikipia North MP Mathew Lempurkel is dead
Former Laikipia North MP Mathew Lempurkel who passed on just a few days after a tragic road accident. File photo
Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga led the wave of tributes following the passing of former Laikipia North MP Mathew Lekidime Lempurkel, who died on Sunday at Kenyatta National Hospital after a week-long battle in the ICU.
His death was due to injuries sustained in a serious road accident at Rongai's Exciting Junction.
Mr Odinga described Lempurkel as “a tireless advocate for the rights of his people, a fierce and spirited defender of justice, and a stalwart of the ODM party.”
He added, “His unwavering commitment to his constituents and his passion for social and political change made a significant impact on the lives of many…”
Further, Odinga called him “not only a colleague but a dear friend, whose work and influence will be remembered for years to come.”
Leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party, Mr Rigathi Gachagua also mourned his death as profoundly painful.
He framed it as the loss of “a dedicated public servant and valued ally.”
On his X (formerly Twitter), Mr Gachagua wrote, “I have learned of the untimely passing of Hon Mathew Lempurkel with a heavy heart... May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may Almighty God grant strength, comfort, and fortitude to his family, loved ones, and all who cherished him during this moment of grief.”
He added, “Hon Mathew Lempurkel has departed, but his legacy will live on in our hearts.”
Laikipia Governor Joshua Irungu honoured Lempurkel’s legacy as “a relentless warrior for land and equality."
Kajiado Governor Joseph ole Lenku remembered him as “a strong Maa voice in Parliament and in national discourse.”
Former Laikipia Woman Representative Catherine Waruguru praised his unfailing defense of pastoralist rights, saying he never shied away from the struggle even when it was politically risky.
Lempurkel’s journey began long before politics. As Executive Director of Ndugu Zangu Christian Community Trust, he financed heart surgeries for children and championed water projects in Laikipia and Isiolo among other community-serving initiatives.
In 2013, he was elected MP for Laikipia North via ODM ticket, building a reputation as a passionate champion of the Maa community’s interests.
He lost re-election in 2017 and again in 2022, but continued as a political firebrand, shifting to UDA and later to DCP under Gachagua’s leadership.
His career contained controversy too. In 2021, Lempurkel was convicted of assaulting MP Sarah Korere inside Harambee House, earning a one-year jail term, though he later secured bail.
In 2022, he faced charges over alleged inflammatory remarks tied to ethnic tension in Laikipia.
Across social media, expressions of grief and nostalgia poured in.
A supporter wrote, “May his soul dance with angels, and his fight for Maa dignity remain in memory.”
For many in Laikipia North, Lempurkel was more than a politician. He was a son of the soil who magnified their voice at the national level.
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