Martha Karua Announces Death of Father Jackson Karua

Martha Karua Announces Death of Father Jackson Karua

People 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 on Sunday evening, September 27, 2026.

Karua announced the death in a statement shared shortly after receiving the news, revealing that she had spent several hours with her father earlier in the day alongside her siblings.

The former Cabinet minister said the family had gathered around their father and sang one of his favourite gospel hymns, unaware that the moment would become their final time together

“It is with profound sadness that I announce the passing of my beloved father, Mwalimu Jackson Karua.”

Karua said she was travelling back to Nairobi when she received the news of his death, describing the moment as one of the most difficult experiences she had faced.

“Earlier today, I went to Kirinyaga to visit my father. My siblings and I spent time with him and sang his favourite gospel hymn, never knowing it would be our last song together.”

She reflected on the difficulty of losing a parent, saying that the passage of time does not necessarily make people ready to say goodbye to someone who has been part of their lives from childhood.

“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 described the final hours she spent with her father as a precious gift, saying she was grateful that the family had an opportunity to be together before his death.

She remembered Jackson Karua as one of her strongest supporters, saying he stood by her throughout different stages of her life, including her education, legal career and years in public service.

According to Karua, her father was a principled teacher who placed emphasis on education, discipline, character and integrity. She said the values he taught his children continued to shape their lives.

“To us, above all, he was a loving father, steady, generous, and present. He gave us not only his love but also the values by which he lived, and in doing so, left us a legacy far greater than words can capture.”

The death has brought together messages of condolence from leaders across Kenya’s political divide, who have expressed sympathy with Karua and her family.

President William Ruto was among those who sent a message of condolence, describing the late Jackson as a dedicated public servant whose work as a teacher touched several generations.

Other leaders who conveyed their condolences included former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and former Attorney General Justin Muturi.

The leaders joined friends, relatives and political allies in mourning the veteran teacher and offering support to the Karua family.

Karua said the loss would be deeply felt by Jackson’s children, grandchildren, extended family and the many people who interacted with him throughout his life.

The family is expected to communicate details of the funeral and burial arrangements at a later date.

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Martha Karua Announces Death of Father Jackson Karua