Leaders from across Kenya’s political divide have joined the family of People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua in mourning the death of her father, Mwalimu Jackson Karua.
Mwalimu Jackson died on Sunday, September 27, 2026, after Karua and her siblings had spent time with him at his home in Kirinyaga earlier in the day. The family sang his favourite gospel hymn during the visit, unaware that it would be their final moments together.
Karua later received news of her father’s death while travelling back to Nairobi.
In a tribute announcing the death, the former Justice Minister described her father as a principled teacher who placed great value on character, education and doing what was right.
She also credited him with being a constant source of encouragement throughout her life, from her school days and legal career to her years in public service.
“My father believed in me long before I had achieved anything worth celebrating. From my school days, through my career in law, and through the many chapters of my public life, he remained one of my strongest supporters,” Karua said.
She described him as a loving, steady and generous father whose values would continue to guide the family.
“I will miss his voice, his counsel, his encouragement, and the quiet reassurance of knowing that he was there,” she said.
The death prompted an outpouring of condolence messages from politicians and public figures from different political formations.
Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi was among the first to send his condolences, describing the loss of a parent as a deeply painful experience.
“My dear sister Martha, I extend my heartfelt condolences to you and your entire family following the passing of your beloved father, Mwalimu Jackson Karua,” Muturi said.
He wished Karua, her siblings, grandchildren and the wider family strength and comfort as they mourned.
Former Chief Justice David Maraga also condoled with Karua, recalling the influence her father had on her character and public life.
Maraga said Karua had previously spoken of her father as a role model and teacher who instilled in her values of honesty, respect and hard work. He said those values had been evident throughout her public career.
Maraga also sent his condolences to Karua’s mother, Mama Josephine Wanjiru, and the entire family.
Digital strategist Dennis Itumbi also mourned the death, referring to Karua as “Mum” in his message.
“Dad leaves a strong legacy and a daughter who has a whole chapter in the book called Kenya,” Itumbi said, while praying for Karua to receive strength, peace and comfort.
Kirinyaga politician and gubernatorial hopeful Wangui Ngirici also expressed her condolences, asking God to comfort Karua and the entire family during the difficult period.
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah was similarly among those who sent messages of sympathy, praying that the family would find strength in the memories of Mwalimu Jackson and the values he passed on to his children.
President William Ruto also joined other leaders in mourning Jackson Karua, describing him as a dedicated teacher and public servant whose work touched generations.
Other opposition figures, including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, also sent messages of condolence to the Karua family.
Kalonzo described the late Mwalimu Jackson as a beloved father and extended his sympathies to Karua, her siblings and the wider family.
The messages have highlighted not only the loss of a family patriarch but also the late teacher’s influence on the values Karua has carried throughout her legal and political career.
Karua concluded her tribute by thanking her father for believing in her, standing by her and loving her throughout her life.
“Huruka thayu, baba. You will be deeply missed, dearly loved, and forever remembered,” she said.
Burial and funeral arrangements are expected to be communicated by the family.
