NAIROBI, Kenya – The death of former Rongo MP and Cabinet minister Dalmas Otieno Anyango on Sunday, September 7, 2025, was received with shock and sadness across the country.
President William Rutto and leaders across the political divide eulogised Dalmas as an important figure in the growth of the country’s democracy.
“Kenya has lost a visionary leader. Waziri Dalmas Otieno served our nation with honour, integrity, and distinction. He was sharp, progressive, and industrious; a statesman whose ideas and leadership will continue to shape generations,” said President Ruto.
Taking on his official X account (formerly Twitter), President Ruto indicated that Dalmas’s passing is a great loss to the country.
“May God grant his family, friends and people of Rongo strength at this difficult time. Rest in Peace, Waziri Dalmas,” the head of state further said.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi condoled with the family of Dalmas.
Mudavadi said that Kenya had lost a remarkable leader in the passing of Dalmas, describing him as a statesman whose devotion to public service left a lasting mark on the country.
“I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and relatives during this time of grief. Hon. Dalmas embodied diligence, integrity, and vision in public service. I had the privilege of serving with him in the Cabinet, where I witnessed firsthand his unmatched commitment, discipline, and passion for the progress of our country,” Mudavadi explained.
According to Mudavadi, Dalmas’s work ethic and sense of duty set an example for many of them in leadership.
“His legacy of service, humility, and patriotism will continue to inspire generations to come. I pray that the Almighty grants his family strength and peace during this difficult time, and may his soul rest in eternal serenity,” Mudavadi further said.
How Gideon Moi eulogised Dalmas Otieno
KANU national chairman Gideon Moi also recognised Dalmas’s contributions to the East African nation.
“Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Hon. Dalmas Otieno, following his sudden demise. Hon. Dalmas was a visionary and dependable leader who rose through the ranks of political leadership and public service to become one of the most consequential Cabinet Ministers,” said Gideon.
The former Baringo senator remembered how, during Dalmas’s days as a member of KANU, the fallen politician devoted his time and expertise to the party and served it with unmatched excellence.
“We extend our deepest condolences to his family and assure them of our support during this sorrowful time. May the soul of Hon. Dalmas rest in eternal peace,” added Gideon.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga also eulogised Dalmas.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Rongo Member of Parliament and Cabinet Minister Hon. Dr. Dalmas Otieno Anyango EGH. On my own and on behalf of the people of Homa Bay, I extend heartfelt condolences to his family, the people of Rongo, and the entire Migori County, as well as to the nation as a whole during this difficult time,” said Wanga.
Why Dalmas Otieno earned respect and admiration
The county boss described Dalmas as a pivotal figure in Kenya’s political landscape.
“He served as a dedicated public servant in various senior government roles. His strong leadership and significant contributions to Kenya’s development agenda earned him immense respect and admiration across the country. May his soul find eternal peace,” she said.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo credited Dalmas for paving the way for many civil servants in the country.
“Hon. Otieno dedicated his life to public service, holding various ministerial positions through which he contributed immensely to the nation’s socio-economic and institutional development. As a pioneer leader, he opened paths that many have since walked, embodying a commitment to integrity, service delivery and the strengthening of our public institutions,” PS Omollo said.
In his own words, the PS went on: “We extend heartfelt condolences to his family, the people of Rongo and the wider South Nyanza community. Kenya has lost a statesman whose contribution to national progress will remain deeply valued and remembered.”
How did former Rongo MP Dalmas Otieno die
Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo said:
“I am saddened by the news of the passing of former Minister and Member of Parliament for Rongo, Hon. Dalmas Otieno. He was a man of uncommon assertiveness who exemplified the role of leadership as a tool of service and not as a means to personal expediency. I extend my sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all the people he served and whose lives he touched with his gentle candour. May his soul rest in peace.”
According to his family, Dalmas died at 80 years old at his Kileleshwa home in Nairobi on the morning of Sunday, September 7, 2025.
He was first elected to the National Assembly in 1988, where he served until 1991, after which he was appointed as the minister for Labour and Human Resources until 1996.
During the Grand Coalition Government, he was appointed as the Public Service Cabinet minister.
Dalmas has been in the civil service for 35 years, with his last role serving as the vice chairperson of the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).
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