NAIROBI, Kenya — Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has joined leaders across Kenya in mourning Mwalimu Jackson Karua, the father of People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader and former Justice Minister Martha Karua.
Jackson Karua died on Sunday, September 27, after Martha and her siblings had spent time with him at his home in Kirinyaga earlier that day.
The family sang his favourite gospel hymn during the visit, unaware that it would be their final time together. Martha received news of his death while travelling back to Nairobi.
Uhuru Hails Jackson Karua’s Legacy
In a condolence message issued on Monday, Kenyatta described Mwalimu Karua as a man whose life was defined by principled leadership, dedication to education, strong character and love for his family.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to Hon. Martha Karua and the entire Karua family following the passing of her beloved father, Mwalimu Jackson Karua,” Kenyatta said.
The former President said Jackson Karua’s values, wisdom and guidance had created an enduring legacy through his children, grandchildren and the many people whose lives he touched.
Kenyatta also prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved family and concluded his message by wishing Mwalimu Karua eternal rest.
Ruto Mourns Veteran Teacher
President William Ruto also sent condolences to Martha Karua and her family.
Ruto described Mwalimu Karua as a dedicated teacher who devoted his life to education and service and whose work touched generations of people.
“We join Martha, the Karua family, relatives and friends in mourning this loss and honouring a life of service,” Ruto said.
The President’s message came as leaders from both government and opposition circles joined the Karua family in mourning the veteran educator.
Kalonzo Offers Support to Martha
Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka also mourned Jackson Karua, extending his condolences to Martha, her siblings and the wider family.
Kalonzo described Martha as his “sister” and paid tribute to her courage and strength as he urged the family to draw comfort from their father’s life and the values he instilled in them.
He also quoted Psalm 34:18 in his message of condolence and prayed for the family to be strengthened during the mourning period.
Karua Remembers Father as Principled Teacher
Martha Karua announced her father’s death on Sunday, describing him as a principled teacher who believed in education, character and doing what was right.
She said Jackson remained one of her strongest supporters throughout her education, legal career and public life.
“My father believed in me long before I had achieved anything worth celebrating,” Karua said, describing his death as a profound loss to his children, grandchildren and extended family.
She said the final visit with her father had become a treasured memory because she and her siblings were able to sit with him and sing together before his death.
Leaders Across Political Divide Pay Tribute
Other leaders who have sent messages of condolence include former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, former Chief Justice David Maraga, former Attorney General Justin Muturi, Siaya Governor James Orengo and Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru.
Jubilee Party Leader Fred Matiang’i also described Mwalimu Karua as a devoted father and educator whose values lived on through his children and the many people he taught.
The messages have come from across Kenya’s political landscape, reflecting the public role Martha Karua has played over several decades.
A Life Remembered Through Education and Family
Beyond politics, tributes to Jackson Karua have focused on his career as an educator, his commitment to his family, and the values he passed on to his children.
The family is expected to communicate funeral arrangements at a later date.
