Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna on Thursday reflected on the joy Kenyans felt during independence in 1963, expressing his desire to lead the country towards a similar era of freedom. At a memorial service for Mwalimu Jackson Karua, the father of People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua, Sifuna shared that he hopes to see Kenyans experience the same joy they had during independence. Mwalimu Karua passed away on September 27 at the age of 98.
The memorial service, held at the All Saints’ Cathedral in Nairobi, was attended by several opposition politicians, including Babu Owino, Jimi Wanjigi, and Millie Odhiambo. Siaya Governor James Orengo was absent, but his wife Betty Murungi represented him. During the service, Sifuna emphasized the need for Kenyans to continue fighting for freedom, just like they did during the struggle for independence. He expressed his wish that future generations would experience a free Kenya.
Sifuna’s sentiments were echoed by other politicians who spoke at the service. Omingo Magara mentioned his desire for a new Kenya where there would be no invasion of churches, referencing a recent incident. The gathering also heard that Mwalimu Karua had hosted his family for prayers at his Kirinyaga home just before his passing. According to Martha Karua, her father had asked them to sing his favorite hymn during the prayer session.
PLP Secretary-General Asha Bashir revealed that the United Opposition had its first meeting at Mwalimu Karua’s homestead in Kirinyaga County. Bashir fondly remembered the unity of the opposition starting at Mzee’s home. The service was a testament to Mwalimu Karua’s impact on Kenyan politics and his role in fostering unity among opposition leaders.
Mwalimu Karua’s family shared that he had been battling illness in the weeks leading up to his death. Martha Karua disclosed that her father had seemed weak in the three weeks prior to his passing. Despite his condition, Mwalimu Karua had gathered his family for prayers, asking them to sing his favorite hymn, which they did.
The memorial service was a celebration of Mwalimu Karua’s life and legacy. Those in attendance paid tribute to his contributions to Kenyan politics and his role in promoting unity among opposition leaders. Sifuna’s call to continue fighting for freedom resonated with the gathering, as they reflected on the progress made since independence.
Key politicians who attended the service, including Raphael Tuju, Boniface Mwangi, and Kimani Ngunjiri, reiterated their commitment to promoting unity and fighting for freedom in Kenya. The event served as a reminder of the importance of unity and the need for Kenyans to work together towards a common goal of achieving true freedom and prosperity.
Key points
- Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna urges Kenyans to continue fighting for freedom.
- Mwalimu Jackson Karua, father of Martha Karua, passes away at 98.
- The memorial service highlights the importance of unity among opposition leaders in Kenya.
