A touching throwback video of Martha Karua's father, Mwalimu Jackson Karua, has resurfaced online, stirring deep emotion among Kenyans following the announcement of his passing. The clip, posted on PLP Kenya's TikTok page, shows an elderly Jackson Karua seated in a home setting, speaking warmly in a mix of Kiswahili and Gikuyu as he walked through memories of his family and political life.

The video appeared to have been filmed around the time Martha Karua launched her book Against the Tide, capturing a rare and intimate glimpse into the family dynamic behind one of Kenya's most prominent opposition figures. On-screen graphics identified him as "Jackson Karua" and "Dad," while archival footage of political rallies and a swearing-in ceremony at State House, Nairobi, played alongside his reflections.

In the interview, the elder Karua spoke fondly of his wife Josephine, recalling how they began their journey together as young people. He described watching Martha grow up like any other child, before destiny set her on a remarkable political path. He recounted a particularly memorable moment at a large public gathering in Kianyaga, where Martha was initially denied the chance to speak but ultimately won over the crowd completely.

Jackson Karua also shared a light-hearted memory about Martha's school days, recalling an incident involving a teacher who wanted to cane female students, and how Martha stood her ground. He then interjected and said how he refused the teacher from caning his daughter on the back and instead asked her to cane her on the hands.

Following the news of Jackson Karua's death, the video took on new significance for many who watched it, prompting heartfelt reactions in the comments. Kenyans across the country have been remembering him as a proud and supportive figure behind a groundbreaking daughter. Martha Karua is the leader of the People's Liberation Party (PLP) and a former presidential running mate.

The outpouring of condolences from Kenyans has been a testament to the impact Jackson Karua had on those who knew him. His pride in Martha was evident throughout the video, as he recounted cherished family and political memories. The video has provided a unique glimpse into the life of a man who played a significant role in shaping one of Kenya's most prominent opposition figures.

Key points

  • The video of Jackson Karua recalling special moments has surfaced online, providing a rare glimpse into the family dynamic behind Martha Karua.
  • Jackson Karua's pride in Martha was evident throughout the video, as he recounted cherished family and political memories.
  • Kenyans have been remembering him as a proud and supportive figure behind a groundbreaking daughter.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.