Former EALA MP Abubakar Zein Abubakar Dies While Undergoing Treatment
News Updated: 09 July 2026 16:46 EAT
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Former East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) member Abubakar Zein Abubakar has died while undergoing treatment at a Nairobi hospital, the Wiper Democratic Movement has confirmed. He passed away on Thursday, July 9, after a period of illness following surgery. The party described his death as a major loss to Kenya's political and constitutional reform movement.
Abubakar served as the Head of the Wiper Party Presidential Secretariat and Campaign, where he played a central role in shaping the party's political strategy and policy agenda. Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka announced his death, describing him as a dedicated patriot, seasoned legislator and trusted adviser whose contribution to public service spanned several decades.
The late Abubakar represented Kenya in the East African Legislative Assembly from 2012 to 2022. During his tenure, he participated in debates and legislative processes aimed at strengthening regional integration, governance, trade and cooperation among member states of the East African Community.
Before joining EALA, Abubakar built a reputation as an experienced constitutional reform advocate. He was among the experts who contributed to the Constitution of Kenya Review Commission, which laid the groundwork for the country's constitutional reforms culminating in the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution.
He also remained active in national governance matters after leaving EALA. In 2023, he participated in the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) talks, where he served as one of the key strategists supporting the opposition team during bipartisan negotiations.
According to the Wiper Party, Abubakar continued to offer political guidance and policy advice even while undergoing medical treatment. Friends and supporters had organised a fundraising initiative to assist with his medical expenses before news of his death emerged.
Tributes poured in from political leaders, former colleagues and members of the legal and governance fraternity, who remembered him as a principled leader committed to constitutionalism, democratic governance and regional cooperation. Many praised his calm leadership style and his ability to build consensus on complex political issues.
During his decade in EALA, Abubakar championed legislation and policies aimed at deepening East African Community integration. His work focused on strengthening regional institutions, improving governance standards and promoting cooperation among partner states.
Kalonzo Musyoka said the country had lost one of its finest constitutional reformers and political strategists, noting that Abubakar's counsel and commitment to democratic values had significantly shaped the Wiper Party and Kenya's reform agenda.
The Wiper Party said funeral arrangements and burial plans will be communicated by the family in due course, as leaders across the political divide continue to mourn a man whose career left a lasting mark on Kenya's constitutional development and regional diplomacy.
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FELIX MAKONA
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