Senator Joyce Korir reflects on life 9 years after her husband’s death
By Steve Ireri, September 12, 2025Nominated Senator Joyce Korir has opened up about the enduring impact of her late husband, Leonard Korir, who passed away in 2016, sharing how his love, protection, and unwavering support shaped both her personal life and political career.
Speaking during an interview at a local TV station on Thursday, September 11, 2025, Joyce reflected on the emotional and practical role Leonard played in her life, describing him as a constant source of guidance and reassurance during some of her most challenging moments.
Joyce recounted how politics was never easy, particularly for a woman entering public life, but she felt safe and confident knowing Leonard, a police constable, was always nearby.
“Even during confrontations and difficult campaigns, I knew he was there, protecting me. After his passing, it has been hard to come to terms with his absence. I will never forget him,” she said.
Her reflections delved into the beginnings of their relationship while she was still in boarding school.
Joyce recalled how Leonard’s persistence and respect for her family eventually won her parents over, even as they initially discouraged her from engaging in politics.
“When we first met, I was in school preparing for exams. During one of the trips to buy a few items with my friends, he approached me, greeted me, and asked where I was from. I was in my uniform, and even though my heart liked him, I was cautious because I was still in school. On the day school closed, he waited for me at the stage and asked me to go with him to meet his parents.”
She described how he would approach her discreetly, provide his contact number, and patiently nurture their bond.
Leonard’s protective and supportive nature, she said, continued as she embarked on her political journey, shielding her from harm and providing counsel whenever challenges arose.
“I took a friend and went with him; we greeted his mother and returned. After that, he pursued me earnestly. My parents also found me work as a clerk in an advocate’s office; I worked there for four days and he came to the office. That is how our relationship began.”
The senator also shared personal memories that highlighted Leonard’s care and attentiveness.
She recalled how he was always present during her campaigns, quietly ensuring her safety without her having to ask.
“Through all of this, my husband’s love, guidance, and protection were pivotal. Even though he is no longer physically here, the foundation he built and the support he gave me continues to guide me in everything I do,” she said.
Joyce’s political trajectory has been remarkable. She was elected Councillor for Singorwet Ward and Deputy Mayor of Bomet Municipality in 2007.
In 2011, she became the first female mayor of Bomet Municipality, serving until 2013.
She later served as MCA and, under the Jubilee Party in 2017, she won the office of Woman Representative in Kenya’s 12th Parliament, replacing Cecilia Ng’etich.