The former Nairobi mayor and one-time MP for Makadara Dick Wathika has passed on.
Wathika who was in office 2004-2007, is said to have fallen ill on Saturday December 19, 2015 evening, and was rushed to the Karen Hospital where he pronounced him dead while seeking medical attention.
Following news of his death, a number of leaders including Nairobi Senator Mike Sonko, Kiambu Governor William Kabogo, Nyeri Governor Nderitu Gachagua, Samburu Senator Naisula Lesuuda, popular businessman Tony Gachoka among others, sent in their condolence messages.
Mike Sonko: “I am deeply saddened by the news of death of Hon. Dick Wathika this evening. On behalf of my family, the people of Nairobi and on my own behalf, our thoughts and prayers are with your family. I have known Dick for 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,”
: My thoughts and prayers are with the Wathika Family and friends. Rest in Peace Hon. Dick Wathika.
: My heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of former Makadara MP Dick Wathika. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Tony Gachoka:Tonight I mourn and I feel the personal loss of Dick Wathika. Am shocked at his untimely death. ‘Sleep with the Angels’ ..bro
After his mayoral term Wathika vied for the Makadara MP seat in 2007 and won, before his election was nullified in 2010 by a court ruling following the petition filed by the former Makadara MP Reuben Ndolo (2002-2007) challenging Wathika’s victory.
The case in court was then ruled by the high court judge by thne Justice Kalpana Rawal, and now deputy Chief justice in favour of Reuben Ndolo citing that “Wathika was not fairly elected”
and urged the urged the ECK now IEBC to call for a fresh/by-election in which later the seat was clinched by now, the Nairobi Senator mike Sonko.