NAIROBI, Kenya— Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has paid tribute to comedian Zachariah Kariuki, better known to his fans as KK Mwenyewe, whose uncanny impersonations of Gachagua himself turned him into a viral sensation—and a household name.
Gachagua, currently on a two-month trip to the United States, expressed his sorrow in a statement on Tuesday, July 15, calling the late content creator “a content creator par excellence” whose humour left a lasting impact on Kenya’s digital space.
“I have this morning woken up to the sad demise of Mr. Zachariah Kariuki alias Mr. KK Mwenyewe, a content creator per excellence and inspiration to many,” the former DP wrote. “Mr. KK, a young, consistent, and resilient young man, used comedy to communicate simple and creative messages to all Kenyans and spoke to our hearts.”
KK died Monday night at Kiambu Level 5 Hospital after a short illness, as confirmed by fellow comedian Kafengo.
His passing has sparked an outpouring of grief on social media, where many fans and fellow creators are remembering his sharp wit, unique delivery, and ability to make everyday frustrations feel laughable—even empowering.
The TikTok and Facebook star had earned over 1.1 million followers on TikTok and another 412,000 on Facebook—numbers that grew rapidly thanks to his hilariously spot-on impersonations of Gachagua, complete with an oversized suit, forced potbelly, and deadpan delivery that mimicked the politician’s public speaking style.
His breakout moment came in 2022, when he posted a viral skit imagining Gachagua’s reaction to winning the general election. Kenyans couldn’t get enough of it—and neither, it seems, could Gachagua himself.
What started as an online gag soon turned into a national talking point. KK’s performances got him booked for interviews, appearances, and even drew support from politicians.
But KK didn’t just do impressions. His comedy often mirrored everyday Kenyan life, painting vivid and funny portraits of the country’s cultural quirks, political ironies, and relatable struggles.
Whether playing a frustrated boda boda rider or spoofing TV interviews, KK had a knack for keeping things real.
His final skit, posted on July 4, now serves as a bittersweet reminder of the young man who made millions laugh—while holding up a mirror to the nation.
As tributes pour in from fans, fellow content creators, and politicians alike, the legacy of KK Mwenyewe stands as a reminder that sometimes, humour is the loudest form of truth.
