Veteran politician and lawyer Martha Karua, widely known as Kenya's Iron Lady, has spoken publicly about the final moments she shared with her late father. At an outdoor evening gathering on September 30, 2026, Karua revealed that she was with her father just an hour before he passed away. She shared a solemn address, which she posted on her TikTok account, resonating with Kenyans who flooded the comments with messages of support.
Karua described how she and her family had said their goodbyes and were heading back to Nairobi when they received a call to turn back. By the time they returned, her father was gone. She considered the chance to see him one last time a blessing. Karua distinguished between sickness and old age, noting that her father had not been ill but was weak and his body was getting tired.
The family had watched their father's body gradually slow down, bracing for what felt inevitable, yet nothing truly prepares a child for the moment of loss. Karua shared her emotional experience, saying that she and her family were not expecting his passing to happen so suddenly. Her father's age was estimated to be anywhere between 96 and over 100 years old, as he never knew his exact date of birth.
Karua's father, a veteran of Kenyan politics, had a significant impact on her life and career. She estimated his age based on the people he taught, some of whom are themselves in their 80s. The family was grateful for every year he lived, and Karua promised to speak more fully at the burial.
Kenyans responded with an outpouring of love and sympathy in the comments on Karua's TikTok video. Many expressed their condolences, with some referring to her as "Madam President" and "Iron Lady." The outpouring of support was a testament to Karua's impact on Kenyan politics and her reputation as a strong leader.
Ida Odinga, accompanied by her daughters Winnie and Rosemary, paid a personal visit to Karua's home to offer condolences following the death of Karua's father. The Odinga family shared warm embraces with Karua in a show of political solidarity and mutual comfort. Karua expressed her gratitude on social media, reflecting on their shared experiences of grief.
Karua's account of her father's final hours has sparked a national conversation about grief, loss, and the importance of family. As Kenyans continue to mourn the loss of Karua's father, her story serves as a reminder of the significance of human connection and the impact of loved ones on our lives.
Key points
- Martha Karua was with her father just an hour before he passed away.
- Karua's father was estimated to be between 96 and over 100 years old.
- Kenyans responded with an outpouring of love and sympathy in the comments on Karua's TikTok video.
