President William Ruto has led Kenyans in mourning the death of Mwalimu Jackson Karua, the father of People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua.

Mwalimu Karua died on Sunday, September 27, shortly after his daughter visited him in Kirinyaga. Karua said she had spent time with her siblings and their father earlier in the day and they sang his favourite gospel hymn, unaware it would be their last song together.

She added that she received news of his death while travelling back to Nairobi.

Mwalimu Jackson Karua's passing

In his message of condolence, President Ruto described Mwalimu Karua as a teacher who devoted his life to education and service, touching generations through his work.

“I have received with deep sorrow the news of the passing of Mwalimu Jackson Karua, father of Martha Karua,” Ruto said.

The President joined the Karua family, relatives and friends in mourning the death and honouring what he described as a life of service.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time. May God grant them strength and comfort, and may the soul of Mwalimu Jackson Karua rest in eternal peace,” Ruto said.

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka also sent his condolences to Karua and her family, describing Mwalimu Karua as her beloved father.

Kalonzo said Karua had demonstrated courage and strength throughout her public life and urged her to draw comfort from the life her father lived, the values he instilled in his children and the memories they shared.

He also cited Psalm 34:18, saying, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Siaya Governor James Orengo also mourned Mwalimu Karua, sending his condolences to Martha Karua, the wider Karua family and all those who knew him.

Tributes from political leaders

Other leaders from across the political divide have also sent messages of condolence following the death.

In her tribute, Martha Karua described her father as a principled man, teacher and strong believer in character, education and doing what is right.

She said he remained one of her strongest supporters from her school days through her career in law and public life, always encouraging her and believing in her.

Karua said her father’s death was a profound loss to his children, grandchildren, wider family and the many people whose lives he touched.

Martha Karua's heartfelt tribute

“I will miss his voice, his counsel, his encouragement, and the quiet reassurance of knowing that he was there,” she said.

She thanked her father for believing in her, standing by her and loving her throughout her life, before concluding her tribute: “Huruka thayu, baba. You will be deeply missed, dearly loved, and forever remembered.”