Francis Bobi Tuva: The longest-serving MP in the Coast Region

Francis Bobi Tuva, born on October 13, 1935, was a remarkable figure in Kenya’s political history. A man of exceptional character, he served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Malindi Constituency, formerly known as Malindi South for 25 years, making him one of the longest-serving MPs in the political history of the Coast region. His tenure in Parliament, which began at the dawn of Kenya’s independence, spanned from the early 1960s until his loss in the 1992 elections following the restoration of multiparty politics. During this time, Francis Bobi Tuva became synonymous with steadfast leadership and selflessness, qualities that earned him the respect of his constituents and colleagues alike.

Francis Bobi Tuva’s career in politics was an unlikely one. Initially, he was a reluctant politician, believing that his greatest contribution to the country could be made through his work as a teacher. Francis Bobi Tuva dedicated himself to moulding the future of Kenya’s educators, a profession he held dear. It was only after repeated visits from delegations of Giriama elders that he reluctantly agreed to stand for election. Once in office, he remained dedicated to his constituents, serving them tirelessly for over two decades. His work as an educator remained foundational to his political career, with his commitment to advancing education and empowering the Giriama people through various initiatives, including the cooperative movement, marking key milestones in his legacy.

Francis Bobi Tuva as an Assistant Minister in President Moi’s Cabinet

In 1978, Francis Bobi Tuva was appointed Assistant Minister in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, a position he held until 1979 when he was made the Assistant Minister in the Ministry of Finance and Office of the Vice-President. His political influence extended far beyond the coastal region, yet he remained a humble and self-effacing leader. Despite his high rank, Tuva shunned the limelight, preferring to work quietly and effectively behind the scenes. His humility and results-oriented approach to leadership, rather than rhetoric, endeared him to his family, friends, students, and constituents.

A man of principles, Francis Bobi Tuva was not swayed by the rising materialism and power struggles that characterized much of Kenya’s post-independence politics. Despite several opportunities to amass wealth, he remained steadfast in his belief that leadership was about service, not personal gain. He believed in earning re-election through merit, not by bribery or manipulation, and often found himself at odds with the political norms of the time. His commitment to service over self-interest was evident in his work for the Giriama people, his efforts to improve education, and his advocacy for empowerment through cooperative movements.

Francis Bobi Tuva’s political career was not without its challenges. As Kenya’s political environment evolved, Tuva’s brand of politics, which was grounded in integrity and service, seemed increasingly out of place. When Kenyan politics became dominated by personal enrichment, power barons, and mudslinging, Francis Bobi Tuva remained resolutely focused on improving the lives of his people, not on playing the political game. His willingness to help others, even at his own expense, earned him deep respect. His work to ensure that a young man with a foot deformity received corrective surgery in Sweden is just one of the many examples of his life-changing impact on the lives of individuals.

Francis Bobi Tuva Death

Although Tuva’s political career ended in 1992, his legacy lived on. Francis Bobi Tuva passed away on October 9, 2000, at the age of 64, at M.P. Shah Hospital in Nairobi. Despite his material lack, he died rich in spirit. His life continues to inspire those who knew him. His infectious laughter, sense of humour, and the inner peace he radiated are remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was not just a politician but a role model of integrity, humility, and dedication to service, leaving an indelible mark on the Coast region and beyond.

Francis Bobi Tuva’s story is a reminder of the kind of leadership Kenya once had — leaders who worked for the betterment of their people and whose success was measured not by personal wealth but by the positive change they brought to their communities.

Credits: Elizabeth Nzani Wachira