Dr. Enock Kibunguchy: From Doctor to Dedicated MP, A Life Cut Short at 72
Dr. Enock Kibunguchy, a prominent Kenyan politician and medical doctor, has passed away, leaving a significant void in Western Kenya’s political landscape.
His death at a hospital in Eldoret has sparked widespread mourning across social media and political circles
Early Life and Education
Born on August 20, 1953, Kibunguchy began his education at Kapretwa Primary School from 1961 to 1967, followed by Mangu High School for O-Levels (1968-1971) and Strathmore College for A-Levels (1972-1973).
He pursued medicine at the University of Nairobi, earning his MBChB and later Mmed, laying the foundation for a dual career in healthcare and politics.
Kibunguchy served as a Medical Officer-Intern at Coast General Hospital (1979-1980) and Lamu District Hospital (1980-1981). He advanced to Senior Medical Officer at Coast General and Eldoret District Hospitals (1985-1996), then Assistant Director of Medical Services at Eldoret District Hospital and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (1996-2002).
His expertise led to a brief stint as Assistant Minister of Health from 2006 to 2007.
Political Journey
Elected MP for Lugari in 2003 under the National Rainbow Coalition, Kibunguchy served until 2007, defeating rivals like Cyrus Jirongo.
He returned in 2013 for Likuyani Constituency with Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (CORD), winning re-election in 2017 under FORD-Kenya, upheld by the Court of Appeal.
Active in the Departmental Committee on Health (2013-2017), he advocated for youth opportunities, procurement reforms, and constituency referral units.
Key Achievements
Kibunguchy championed infrastructure like the Soy-Kilimani-Turbo Road completion during his Likuyani tenure.
He focused on health referrals, youth empowerment in contracts, and regional development amid political coalitions including NASA.
His over 725 parliamentary appearances reflect deep commitment to public service.
Challenges and Security Issues
Plagued by violence, Kibunguchy’s driver was shot dead in 2018 on the Eldoret-Kitale highway, with suspicions he was the target.
A 2025 bodyguard killing prompted calls for probes, and the driver’s funeral turned chaotic, injuring six.
Tributes portray Kibunguchy as a visionary leader for Likuyani and Lugari, with figures like Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka offering condolences.
As a doctor-turned-MP, his blend of service endures, though funeral details await confirmation. Kenya mourns a bridge-builder in turbulent politics.