Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o has lost his mother.

Dorcas Owino Nyong’o was pronounced dead at the Agha Khan Hospital, Nairobi where she had been admitted for a few days. She was 98 years old.

Director of Communication Aloyce Ager confirmed Nyongo’s bereavement and said that the deceased was pronounced dead at 1.55 pm.

“We keep H.E the Governor and the entire family in prayers at these very dark times in their lives. May the Lord give them strength and fortitude to overcome this pressing moment,” said Ager.

Her demise came a few hours after the High Court in Kisumu heard that she had suffered a heart attack during a session in which the court was set to sentence her two children for contempt.

The revelations had been made by Nyongo’s lawyer Jefferson Museve who said that Nyong’o’s sister had passed by the hospital to see her sick mother.

The governor was expected to fly back to the country yesterday from USA where he has been on an official trip.

Opposition leader Raila Odinga and his wife Ida were among leaders who sent condolences to the Nyong'o family.

"Mama Ida and I mourn the passing of Mama Dorcas. She was a true matriarch and pillar of the Nyongo family. She never stopped serving and guiding the family and the community she was part of despite her advancing years," Raila said in a statement sent to newsrooms yesterday afternoon.

He added: "She leaves behind a legacy of remarkable leadership and great heart. We are profoundly grateful for having known her. Our family will be forever grateful for the friendship we formed that has stood the test of time."