Former Nairobi mayor Dick Wathika passes on
By JEREMIAH KIPLANG’AT
Former Nairobi mayor Dick Wathika died on Saturday with reports indicating he passed on while he was being rushed to Karen hospital. The cause of his death is yet to be made public.
Mukurweini MP Kabando wa Kabando posted a brief statement his Facebook page regarding Mr Wathika’s death saying the family was taking his body to Lee Funeral Home.
“Rest in Peace my friend-relative-competitor-colleague Hon Dickson Wathika, former City Mayor and Assistant Minister Public Works. Indeed death is very cruel. We’re now taking body to Lee Funeral. Let’s pray for family. Peace,” said Mr Kabando.
Nairobi Senator Mike Sonko also mourned the death of the former Makadara MP saying he had been the master of ceremony during the burial of his (Sonko’s) father.
“I have known Dick for many years dating back to his tenure as Makadara MP. He was also the MC during my late dad’s funeral ceremony. My family takes this early opportunity to send our condolences. May God give his family strength and courage during this difficult moment,” he said.
Mr Sonko defeated Mr Wathika during the Makadara’s by-election in 2010. The by-election was called after former MP Reuben Ndolo successfully petitioned for the cancellation of Mr Wathika’s election in court.
Before becoming an MP, Mr Wathika had been the city’s mayor.