Parliament paid an emotional tribute on Thursday to the late Denar Joseph Hamisi, remembering the Kilifi lawmaker as a quiet force in national politics whose influence resonated far beyond his modest public profile.
During a solemn requiem mass at Ridgeways Baptist Church in Kiambu County, Deputy Majority Leader and Kilifi North MP Owen Baya described Denar — fondly known as “Tui” — as a stabilising presence in the Coast region and a mentor who helped shape the political journeys of many.
“He was a giant within the Coast who touched the lives of many people. Many politicians will tell you that Denar was part of their journey, and as Kenya Kwanza, we have lost a resource mobilizer and a pillar of the party,” Baya told mourners.
Clerk of the National Assembly Samuel Njoroge eulogized the late MP as a self-effacing leader who preferred lifting others rather than seeking recognition. He noted that Denar often shunned the ceremonious title of “Honourable,” choosing humility over status.
“Hon. Tui shied away from being called an Honourable Member of Parliament. He chose to glorify others rather than himself and often stayed unnoticed,” Njoroge said. He added that Denar quietly consulted on contentious parliamentary debates, always seeking to act with calm judgment.
Family members remembered him as a grounding presence — a patient listener who offered help without hesitation and whose absence, they said, leaves a deep emotional void.
The service drew several current and former legislators, among them MPs Oku Kaunya (Teso North), Liza Chelule (Nakuru County) and Irene Kasalu (Kitui County), as well as former lawmakers Naomi Shaban, Dan Kazungu and Ann Nyokabi Gathecha.
Speaker Moses Wetang’ula is expected to lead a parliamentary delegation to Mazeras, Kwale County, on Saturday, December 13, for the final farewell and burial ceremony.
