Veteran politician and former Cabinet minister Dalmas Otieno has died at the age of 80, his family and political leaders have confirmed.

Otieno, popularly known as “The Cassava King,” had a long and decorated political career spanning decades, marked by his service in key ministerial positions and as a Member of Parliament.

Dalmas Otieno was first elected as the MP for Rongo Constituency in 1988. He later reclaimed the seat in 2007 and again in 2013. Throughout his political journey, he served under different administrations, becoming a prominent figure in Kenya’s political landscape.

He was appointed Minister for Industrialisation (1988–1991), later serving as Minister of Labour & Human Resource Development in 1991 and then as Minister of Transport (1991–1996). Under President Mwai Kibaki, he held the position of Minister of State for Public Service.

Before joining politics, Otieno built an illustrious career in finance and economics, having studied Applied Economics at Makerere University. His economic expertise influenced much of his political work, particularly in public service reforms and development policies.

On Sunday evening, family members, relatives, and political allies gathered at his home to mourn his passing. Leaders across the political divide have since paid tribute, describing him as a visionary leader, statesman, and reformist who contributed immensely to Kenya’s governance and development.

Dalmas Otieno leaves behind a legacy of public service, leadership, and economic insight that shaped Kenya’s politics and institutions for over three decades. His death marks the end of an era for one of Rongo’s most distinguished sons.