MP Joseph Denar Fondly Remembered for His Quiet Leadership and Remarkable Generosity

The late nominated MP Joseph Hamisi Denar is being remembered in Parliament not just for his legislative service, but for the extraordinary kindness and humility that touched countless lives.

National Assembly Clerk Samuel Njoroge shared heartfelt memories on Thursday during Denar’s requiem mass at Ridgeways Baptist Church, where mourners reflected on his warmth with both laughter and tears.

Njoroge recalled how staff at Parliament’s modest MPs’ restaurant always seemed eager to serve Denar—so much so that waiters would sometimes rush to him all at once. Intrigued by the unusual enthusiasm, he sought clarification from the hospitality department.

He soon learned why: “When you served Denar tea worth Sh500, he would give a Sh3,500 tip,” Njoroge revealed, drawing emotional reactions from the congregation. At one point, the Assembly even considered regulating tipping, but Denar insisted the practice should remain voluntary.

“He said staff never demanded anything; they served from the heart. He felt it was just fair,” Njoroge noted.

Beyond his generosity, Denar—fondly nicknamed “Tui”—was remembered as a soft-spoken, thoughtful leader who often shunned the spotlight. Njoroge said Denar would quietly seek advice during contentious parliamentary votes, always preferring to act with intention and humility.

“He chose to highlight others rather than himself and often stayed unnoticed,” Njoroge said.

Colleagues described him as a man whose kindness extended far beyond the walls of Parliament. He freely offered support, mentorship, and guidance to friends, constituents, and fellow leaders.

“Joseph made generosity look effortless,” Njoroge added. “He reminded us that leadership isn’t just about power, but about making people feel valued.”

Deputy Majority Leader and Kilifi North MP Owen Baya praised Denar as a respected figure in the Coast region, saying many politicians owe part of their journey to him.

“As Kenya Kwanza, we have lost a resource mobiliser and a pillar of the party,” Baya remarked.

Among the leaders who attended the service were MPs Oku Kaunya, Liza Chelule, and Irene Kasalu, alongside former legislators Naomi Shaban, Dan Kazungu, and Ann Nyokabi.

An overnight vigil will be held at his home in Mazeras, Kwale County, on Friday, December 12. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula is expected to lead a parliamentary delegation on Saturday, December 13, for the final farewell.

Denar passed away on December 6 at the age of 56.