Ex-Laikipia North MP Mathew Lempurkel dies after road accident

Former Laikipia North MP Mathew Lempurkel has died following a road accident that occurred earlier this week in Rongai.

Lempurkel sustained serious injuries in the crash and was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), where he remained under close medical care. 

He succumbed to his injuries on Sunday.

A vocal advocate for the Maa community, Lempurkel served as Laikipia North MP between 2013 and 2017. 

During his tenure, he was widely known for championing indigenous land rights and pushing for greater recognition of marginalized communities in northern Kenya.

Confirming the death, KNH Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Richard Lesiyampe said the former legislator passed away at the facility early Sunday morning.

“I want to confirm that the MP passed on while undergoing treatment at KNH. He was admitted in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the private wing, where he died this morning,” Lesiyampe told the Standard on phone.

He added, “We did the best we could under our circumstances, but unfortunately, we could not save him.”

“The report we have is that the MP was hit by a car,” Dr Lesiyampe confirmed.

Various leaders have sent their condolences to the family of the late, among them former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, whom he stated was also a member of his DCP party.

I have learnt of the untimely passing on of Hon. Mathew Lempurkel with a heavy heart.

Hon. Lempurkel was a member of the @DCP_Democracy and former Member of Parliament for Laikipia North.

May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may Almighty God grant strength, comfort, and… pic.twitter.com/rjsijJBk9s — Rigathi Gachagua (@rigathi) August 24, 2025

"Mathew Lempurkel has departed, but his legacy will live on in our hearts," Gachagua posted on X.

Led by the County Secretary Koinange Wahome, Laikipia North residents eulogised the deceased as a leader whose development agenda set the foundation in the constituency after it was caved from Laikipia East. 

“Lempurkel will be remembered as a courageous leader, a fearless defender, and a true son of the Maa community,” said Koinange.