Ex-Bungoma mayor killed by in hit and run accident

A former Bungoma mayor was last evening fatally wounded by a hit-and-run motorist on the busy Webuye-Malaba highway.

Thaddeus Simiyu Matibila (pictured), a senior Ford-Kenya official, was knocked at Ndengelwa trading centre in Kanduyi Constituency. 

Good Samaritans took the former councillor to Bungoma West Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Mr Matibila represented Stadium ward in Kanduyi Constituency for a single term from 2002 to 2007 on a Ford-K ticket.

It was later merged with Khalaba ward that is represented by Majimbo Okumu (ODM).  

Mr Matibila retired from active politics when he was trounced by Mr Okumu.

Ford Kenya party leader Moses Wetang'ula sent condolences to his family and implored road users to be careful during the festive period.

"It's shocking to learn of the death of former Bungoma mayor HW Simiyu Matibila in a horrific accident next to his home at Ndengelwa. Road carnage must be checked during this festive period. He was a loyal and trusted Ford Kenya official who'll be missed. RIP brother," said Wetang'ula on Twitter.

Ford Kenya party has lost two leaders from Bungoma county within two weeks.

Last week, Kabuchai Constituency MP James Lusweti succumbed to arthritis at a Nairobi hospital.    

The party also lost its long-serving NEC member Alamin Mohammed from Mombasa on December 6 after a short illness.

The driver involved in Matiliba's crash has not been apprehended by police.