By Brian Kiplimo
Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro is mourning the death of his father, Mzee Gideon Baya Mung’aro Senior, who passed away on the morning of Sunday, June 15, 2025, at the Kilifi County Referral Hospital. The loss comes on a day globally observed as Father’s Day, adding a deeply personal layer of grief for the Governor and his family.
In an emotional message shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Governor Mung’aro expressed his profound sorrow, while also thanking the many Kenyans who have reached out with messages of comfort and solidarity.
“Today, on Father’s Day, I lost my father—Gideon Baya Mung’aro Senior. It’s a deeply painful moment, but I’m truly grateful for the love, support, and prayers from family, friends, and all who’ve reached out. Your kindness is helping us through this difficult time. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart,” wrote the Governor.
The late Mzee Gideon Baya Mung’aro Senior was a revered public servant who served as the Senior Chief of Gede Location. His leadership is credited with playing a pivotal role in shaping the development of Malindi, Gede, and Dabaso during his tenure. Known for his wisdom, humility, and dedication to public service, Mzee Mung’aro leaves behind a lasting legacy that continues to resonate across Kilifi County and beyond.
The news of his passing triggered a nationwide wave of condolences from leaders across the political divide and various levels of government.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga joined in mourning the late chief, stating:
“I extend my deepest condolences to Governor Mung’aro and the family… That this loss comes on Father’s Day makes it even more profound. May you find strength in the cherished memories and enduring legacy of your beloved father.”
Cabinet Secretary for Mining and Blue Economy, Hassan Joho, a longtime ally and personal friend of Governor Mung’aro, also expressed his grief:
“It is with profound sadness that I have received the heartbreaking news of the passing of Mzee Gideon Baya Mung’aro Senior. I extend my deepest condolences to my dear brother and friend Gideon Mung’aro. I share in your pain and loss and pray that the Almighty God comfort you and your family. May the Almighty grant the soul of Mzee Gideon Mung’aro Senior everlasting peace.”
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir offered his condolences in a heartfelt Kiswahili message:
“Kwa huzuni kuu tunatuma rambirambi zetu kwa Mheshimiwa Gavana Gideon Mung’aro kufuatia kifo cha baba yake mpendwa, Mzee Gideon Baya Mung’aro. Tunamuombea apumzike kwa amani na familia ipate faraja.”
(Translation: With deep sorrow, we send our condolences to Hon. Governor Gideon Mung’aro following the death of his beloved father, Mzee Gideon Baya Mung’aro. We pray that he rests in peace and that the family finds comfort.)
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), the Governor’s political party, issued a statement lauding the late Mzee Mung’aro as:
“A great man who made the modern Malindi and Dabaso what it is today.”
Other leaders, including Malindi MP Amina Mnyazi and Public Service Cabinet Secretary Aisha Jumwa, also joined in paying tribute and sharing messages of condolence.
Mzee Gideon Baya Mung’aro Senior is remembered not only as a respected elder and administrator but also as a pillar of community development and traditional leadership. He leaves behind a profound legacy of service, integrity, and dedication to the people of Kilifi County.
Funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days as the family prepares to lay to rest a man who touched many lives and shaped a generation of leadership.
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