Mwalimu Jackson Karua, the father of former Justice Minister Martha Karua, has died, with his daughter remembering him as a principled teacher whose support shaped her life and career.
Martha announced his death on Sunday after visiting him in Kirinyaga with her siblings earlier in the day.
The family sang his favourite gospel hymn during the visit, unaware it would be their final moments together.
“On my way back to Nairobi, I received the news that my beloved father had breathed his last,” Martha said.
She described Jackson as a man who believed in education, character and doing what was right.
“My father believed in me long before I had achieved anything worth celebrating,” she said.
“From my school days, through my career in law, and through the many chapters of my public life, he remained one of my strongest supporters, always proud, always encouraging, and always in my corner.”
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka was among those who sent condolences to the Karua family, describing Jackson as Martha’s “beloved father”.
“My sister Martha, you have always been our Iron Lady, a woman of remarkable courage and strength,” Kalonzo said.
“During this deeply painful moment, I pray that you and your family remain strong and find comfort in the life your father lived, the values he instilled in you, and the memories you shared.”
Jackson and his wife, Josephine Wanjiru, raised their family in Kimunye, Gichugu, Kirinyaga. Martha was the second-born in a family of eight.
The couple were teachers and placed a strong emphasis on education and discipline in raising their children.
Martha has previously recalled how her father influenced her decision to pursue law. As a child, she accompanied him to court and later told him she wanted to become a judge.
“As we left the court, I remember telling my dad that I wanted to be a judge,” she recalled.
His response was simple: “That’s okay, my daughter, but you’ll have to work hard in school.”
Martha went on to study law at the University of Nairobi before entering public life, serving as Gichugu MP, Attorney General and Justice Minister.
When Raila Odinga picked her as his running mate in the 2022 presidential election, Jackson spoke proudly of his daughter.
“I thank God. I am elated after the announcement that Martha will be Raila’s running mate,” he said.
“She is a natural leader who has always been respectable.”
Martha said her father remained a source of encouragement throughout her public life.
“My father was a principled man, a teacher, and a man who believed deeply in the value of character, education, and doing what is right,” she said.
“But to us, above all, he was a loving father, steady, generous, and present.”
“I will miss his voice, his counsel, his encouragement, and the quiet reassurance of knowing that he was there,” she added.
“To my father, thank you for believing in me, for standing beside me, and for loving me through every chapter of my life.”
She ended her tribute with a farewell: “Huruka thayu, baba.”
“You will be deeply missed, dearly loved, and forever remembered,” she said.
