18 years on: Remembering six MPs killed in plane crash while on peace mission to Marsabit

On April 10, 2006, a peace mission aimed at reconciling warring communities in Marsabit County ended in tragedy after several officials lost their lives in a plane crash.

The members of the peace delegation boarded a Chinese-built Kenyan Air Force Harbin Y-12 twin-engine from Nairobi to Marsabit to participate in a peace conference among other factions in Northern Kenya.

The aircraft, with 17 individuals on board, including Members of Parliament and government officials, burst into flames, leaving only three survivors.

According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred around 10 am near Marsabit National Park.

Among the deceased were six MPs from the late president Mwai Kibaki era, including the Deputy Leader of the Opposition and North Horr MP and former Foreign Minister Dr Bonaya Godana, Saku MP Abdi Sasura, Moyale MP Guracha Galgallo, Laisamis MP and Assistant Minister of Regional Development Titus Ngoyoni, member of the East African Parliament, Rtd Lt-General Abdullahi Adan, MP Mirugi Kariuki, the Assistant Minister for Internal Security and Bishop William Waqo.

An undersecretary in the president's office, lower-level officials, police, and Air Force crewmembers also perished in the incident.

Those who survived included the then Provincial Commissioner for Eastern Province, Patrick Osare, and Kenya Air Force crew members Senior Sergeant Isaac King’ori Mureithi and Senior Private Trevor Lukwe Mwamuye.

It was the first time leaders from the Borana, Gabra, and Rendille communities agreed to come together to devise a comprehensive peace programme after years of hostilities.

Following the devastating plane crash, the then Government spokesman Alfred Mutua indicated that adverse weather conditions may have played a role in the tragedy.

"Initial reports indicate that the aeroplane may have crashed due to poor visibility caused by bad weather over Marsabit Hill," he said then.

The late President Mwai Kibaki expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased, recognising them as "peacemakers" who were dedicated to fostering stability in the region.

While offering a heartfelt tribute to the departed, deputy Majority Chief Whip of the National Assembly Naomi Waqo on Wednesday praised the dedication and selflessness of the fallen leaders, emphasising that their unwavering commitment to serving the nation will forever be remembered.

She urged fellow Kenyans to draw inspiration from their courage and steadfastness, urging continued efforts towards unity and prosperity in Kenya.

“Let us draw inspiration from their courage and commitment as we continue their work towards a united and prosperous Kenya. May their souls rest in eternal peace, and may their memory fuel our efforts towards building a peaceful society in Marsabit county,” she said.

The tragic crash remains one of the most devastating air accidents in the country’s history.

Today marks a solemn occasion as we reflect on the 18th anniversary of the tragic Marsabit plane crash, a day that claimed the lives of esteemed leaders who served our nation with unwavering dedication. pic.twitter.com/HelAz2TGtW

— Hon Canon Naomi Waqo, CBS (@NaomiWaqo) April 10, 2024