Why I hardly speak when Elachi is in Parliament – MP Osoro

Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro reads his tribute during the memorial service of MP Beatrice Elachi's son, Elvis Namenya at the Holy Trinity Church in Kileleshwa, March 28, 2025. /PARLIAMENT

Majority Chief Whip Silvanus Osoro on Friday openned up about his personal relationship with Dagoretti North MP Beatrice Elachi, which dates back to when he was seven and on the streets.

With a sense of nostalgia, the South Mugirango MP said Elachi is more of a mother to him than a fellow MP in the National Assembly, a relationship he said naturally demands of him to accord her high level of respect.

Osoro said Elachi took him off the streets after his parents died and played a great role in nurturing him into who he is today. 

“When I needed somebody to take the place of my mother, when I was getting married, Beatrice Elachi stood up and become my mother. And that is why today, I stand on the side of the family. She has been a pillar all through and sometimes when we disagree, she takes charge,” he explained.

Speaking during the memorial service of Elachi's son, Elvis Namenya at the Holy Trinity Church in Kileleshwa, Osoro said he avoids contributing to controversial debates in the House whenever Elachi is in the House.

“I get calls from Governor Johnson Sakaja telling me to tone down during debate but it is because he does not know the button to push. If he asked Elachi, I wouldn't speak; I would even walk away. I hardly speak when I see her seated on the other side,” Osoro, said.

MPs on Friday gathered at the Holy Trinity Church in a show of solidarity with Elachi as family, friends and leaders paid tribute to her late son Elvis.

Elvis died tragically in a road accident on March 25, 2025.

A final-year student at Africa Nazarene University, Elvis was described as a kind, generous and hardworking young man.

His sudden death came on the verge of a bright future as he was set to graduate this June.

Speaking during the memorial service, Elachi expressed profound gratitude for the outpouring of prayers, love and support her family has received.

She emphasised the importance of faith, urging young people to seek God’s protection in their daily lives.

With the pain of loss evident in her voice, Elachi also encouraged young people to maintain open communication with their parents.

“As a family, we have embraced prayers. I want to urge our young people—before you leave home, always pray to God to protect you in everything you do,” she said.

The MP revealed that her son died following a tyre burst of the vehicle he was driving.

“Elvis will always be my testimony. I encourage young people to keep their parents informed about their whereabouts. Even if you plan to handle a problem on your own, let them know, just so they are aware,” she said.