Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale is mourning the sudden death of his wife, Gloria Sekeiyan Khalwale, who collapsed and died on Saturday morning after suffering a heart attack.
Khalwale broke the heartbreaking news through a statement on social media, saying Gloria’s death had come suddenly.
“My dear wife, Gloria Sekeiyan Khalwale, has this morning suddenly collapsed and died after a heart attack,” the senator said.
Gloria was the mother of eight children. The senator named them as Engine Kukaste, Olivia Sabayi, Flavia Shimuli, Gift Atubukha, Meliza Khamwenyi, Velma Nasiebanda, Sonia Inuni and Maura Makatse.
A devastating loss for the Khalwale family
The news has triggered an outpouring of condolences from political leaders, friends and members of the public.
President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto were among those who sent messages of sympathy to Khalwale and his family following Gloria’s death.
The sudden nature of the death has made the loss particularly difficult for the family, with Khalwale not indicating that Gloria had been battling any illness before her death.
Another painful loss
Gloria’s death also brings back painful memories for Khalwale.
The senator lost his first wife, Adelaide Shikanga, in October 2019. Adelaide also collapsed on a Saturday morning and died, although her death followed complications associated with illnesses she had previously battled.
The striking similarity between the two tragedies has left many Kenyans reflecting on the difficult losses the politician has experienced within his family.
Leaders rally around Khalwale
Messages of condolence continued to come in throughout Saturday as leaders and members of the public expressed their support for the senator and his children.
For a family that has suddenly lost a mother and wife, the coming days are likely to be filled with grief as relatives and friends gather to offer comfort.
Gloria’s passing leaves behind eight children and a family now facing the painful task of coming to terms with a loss that came without warning.
Gloria Sekeiyan Khalwale died on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
