The funeral service for Mwalimu Jackson Karua, father of People's Liberation Party leader Martha Karua, is being held at Mugumo Primary School in Gichugu, Kirinyaga County. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka are among the prominent leaders in attendance. The event draws a large gathering of family, friends, and leaders paying their respects to the veteran educator.
Mwalimu Jackson Karua, who died at the age of 98, is being laid to rest at the family home in Kathande, Gichugu, following the funeral service. His daughter, Martha Karua, described him as a principled teacher who valued education, character, and doing what was right. She credited him with being a strong source of support throughout her education, legal career, and public service.
Other leaders attending the ceremony include Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, former Meru governor Kawira Mwangaza, former Interior Cabinet secretary Fred Matiang'i, Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro. Sifuna and Babu had also attended a memorial service for Mwalimu Karua at All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi on Thursday, October 1.
Kalonzo Musyoka, Wamalwa, and Matiang'i had earlier joined other leaders in visiting Karua's family to offer their condolences following the death of her father. President William Ruto was among those who sent messages of condolence, while Uhuru Kenyatta described the late educator as a man known for principled leadership, dedication to education, strong character, and love for his family.
Kalonzo Musyoka mourned Mwalimu Karua, describing him as a teacher, father, and family patriarch whose life influenced generations. Other leaders who have offered condolences include former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua, former chief justice David Maraga, and former attorney general Justin Muturi. The outpouring of tributes reflects the impact Mwalimu Karua had on his community and beyond.
Mwalimu Jackson Karua died at his home in Kirinyaga County on Sunday, September 27. Martha Karua announced his death, recalling that she and her siblings had spent time with him earlier that day. The family sang his favourite gospel hymn during the visit, unaware that it would be their final time together.
The attendance of high-profile leaders at the funeral service underscores the respect and admiration for Mwalimu Jackson Karua's contributions to education and his community. As the nation bids farewell to this veteran educator, his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Key points
- Former President Uhuru Kenyatta attends the funeral service of Mwalimu Jackson Karua.
- Martha Karua's father, Mwalimu Jackson Karua, was a principled teacher who valued education and character.
- The funeral service was attended by numerous leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka, Edwin Sifuna, and Babu Owino.
