Faith Chandianya, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and Current Affairs in Kenya

Anthony Kibuchi, once a respected officer in Nairobi’s provincial police officer, has passed away, leaving behind a family mourning his loss.

In an exclusive interview with Mathew Karimi, a family spokesperson and nephew of the late, said Kibuchi died on Tuesday, May 13, after a long battle with cancer.

Karimi said his uncle had been admitted to Kenyatta University Referral Hospital in Nairobi, where he was receiving treatment prior to his death.

"He had been battling cancer since 2018. There was an appeal for blood last week in order to stabilise his condition."

He added that the family had hoped Kibuchi would live much longer after he was declared cancer-free in 2022, but the disease relapsed and dashed their hopes.

According to Karimi, Kibuchi will be laid to rest in his hometown of Kirinyaga, and preparations for a proper send-off are already underway.

"He will be buried at his official residence on Wednesday, May 21. The family and friends have been meeting to plan for his funeral," Karimi added.

Kibuchi held several senior roles within the Kenya Police, including serving as the provincial police officer for the Nyanza and North Eastern regions before leading Nairobi’s police from 2009 to 2013.

His time in Nairobi coincided with intense efforts to curb the Mungiki gang’s influence.

He is remembered for advancing cooperation between police and communities, as well as for his notable legal clash with former chief justice Willy Mutunga.

Kibuchi, who died aged 67, was a strong advocate for police reforms and remained hopeful that the proposed County Policing Authorities would be effectively implemented.

Following the announcement of Kibuchi’s death, Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo expressed his condolences, joining Kenyans in mourning.

He described the former police chief as a committed officer who served the country with honour and dedication.

“We mourn the passing of former Nairobi Provincial Police Commander, Anthony Kibuchi. His commitment to duty and the safety of Kenyans remains a legacy we deeply cherish. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and the entire National Police Service fraternity. May his soul rest in eternal peace," Omollo said.

Kibuchi’s death comes a year after the nation mourned the death of former Assistant Inspector-General of Police King’ori Mwangi.

He passed away while undergoing treatment at a Nairobi hospital.

His family announced his passing to the public on Sunday, February 11, 2024.

The cause of death was not disclosed, as Mwangi maintained a private life following his retirement.

Source: TUKO.co.ke