Martha Karua mourns father as leaders across political divide send condolences

People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua is mourning the death of her father, Mwalimu Jackson Karua, who passed away at his home in Kirinyaga County last evening, Sunday, September 27, 2026.

Karua announced the death in a statement after spending much of the day with her father alongside her siblings, unaware that it would be their final moments together.

She said the family sang his favourite gospel hymn during the visit before she received news of his death while travelling back to Nairobi.

“There is never really an age at which you are prepared to say goodbye to someone who has been part of your life from the very beginning,” Karua said, describing the loss as one of the toughest moments of her life.

She remembered her father as a principled teacher who valued education, character and doing what was right. Karua said he remained one of her strongest supporters throughout her education, legal career and years in public service.

“My father believed in me long before I had achieved anything worth celebrating,” she said, adding that he had left his children and grandchildren a legacy of values, love and encouragement.

The death triggered messages of condolence from political leaders across Kenya’s political divide.

President William Ruto expressed sorrow over the death, describing Mwalimu Karua as a dedicated teacher who devoted his life to education and touched generations through his service.

“We join Martha, the Karua family, relatives and friends in mourning this loss and honouring a life of service,” Ruto said, praying for strength and comfort for the bereaved family.

Wiper Partriotic Front Party boss and Azimio One Kenya Coalition leader Kalonzo Musyoka also sent his condolences to Karua and her siblings, describing her as an “Iron Lady” and urging the family to draw strength from their father’s life and the values he instilled in them.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said Mwalimu Karua had played an important role in shaping those he taught and in raising children whose contribution to Kenya’s development would continue to be felt.

Former Chief Justice David Maraga, Jubilee Party leader Fred Matiang’i, Deputy Jubilee leader Jeremiah Kioni, Siaya Governor James Orengo and Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru were among other leaders who mourned the educator and father.

Former Attorney General Justin Muturi, Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah and political strategist Dennis Itumbi also conveyed messages of condolence.

Mwalimu Karua was remembered by the leaders as a teacher, mentor and devoted father whose emphasis on education, integrity and character influenced both his family and those he taught.

Burial arrangements are expected to be announced by the family.