Former Alego Usonga MP Peter Castro Oloo Aringo /photo courtesy/
Former Education minister and Alego Usonga MP Peter Castro Oloo Aringo is dead.
The news about Aringo’s death has been confirmed by Alego Usonga MP Sam Atandi.
Atandi took to social media to break the news about the untimely death of Mr. Aringo
“I break the sad news of the sudden demise of Hon.Peter Oloo Aringo, former Cabinet Minister and Mp Alego Usonga . Hon. Aringo passed on this evening at Aga Khan hospital in Nairobi. May his soul rest in Peace.” reads a Facebook post on Atandi’s official page.
Born in 1941, Peter Oloo Aringo played a pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s education landscape. He completed his primary education at Mbaga Primary School and later attended St. Mary’s School in Yala.
After earning a diploma from Siriba College, he taught briefly before pursuing a degree in history, economics, and politics from the University of Nairobi, graduating with first-class honors in 1969.
He later continued his academic journey with a Commonwealth scholarship to study for a master’s degree in international comparative education at the University of Toronto, Canada.
Aringo’s political career began in 1974 when he won a parliamentary seat in Siaya District, backed by influential leaders like former Vice President Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. His initial victory laid the foundation for a notable career in politics, marked by his advocacy for education and public service.
As Minister for Education, Aringo introduced the 8-4-4 education system, which aimed to provide a more practical approach to education. He oversaw the establishment of the Kenya Technical Trainers’ College and expanded the Kenya Science Teachers’ College to address the pressing need for technical education in the country. He also played a crucial role in transforming several universities into public institutions and initiated the creation of regional institutes of technology across Kenya.
Throughout his 15 years in various ministerial roles under President Daniel arap Moi, Aringo was known for his commitment to legislative reforms. He moved significant bills aimed at increasing governmental accountability, including proposals for a Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the Parliamentary Service Commission.
Aringo faced significant challenges, including his dismissal in 1982 following allegations related to celebrations after a coup attempt—claims he vehemently denied. Despite this setback, he returned to Parliament, winning sympathy votes in subsequent elections.
His legacy extends beyond education; he was a tireless advocate for parliamentary independence and reform. As a respected elder statesman, he continued to influence Kenyan politics, serving as a commissioner with the Salaries and Remuneration Commission, where he promoted citizen rights and governance.
