Kanini Kega Thrown Into Mourning After Mother Dies Hours After UK Assignment From Gachagua
Kanini Kega is mourning the death of his mother, Mama Annah Nyatoro Wairimu, who passed away early Friday morning in news that has triggered an outpouring of condolences from political leaders across the country.
The heartbreaking development emerged just hours after former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua revealed that he had dispatched Kega on an assignment to the United Kingdom, only for the former Kieni MP to receive the devastating news upon arrival.
Confirming the death in an emotional statement, Kega described the loss as deeply painful and difficult for the family to process.
“I am devastated and heartbroken. It is well with my soul; however, it is difficult to believe that my mother has rested. It is painful,” Kega said.
Mama Annah’s death immediately attracted messages of sympathy from leaders across the political divide, many praising her role in raising and supporting her family.
Among those who sent condolences was Gachagua, who spoke warmly of the deceased matriarch and disclosed that he had only recently entrusted Kega with a diplomatic engagement abroad.
“It is with profound sadness that I have learnt of the passing on of Mama Annah Nyatoro Wairimu, mother of EALA MP Hon. Kanini Kega, early today,” Gachagua said.
The former Deputy President described Mama Annah as a respected figure in her community who worked tirelessly to educate her children and was admired for her generosity and humility.
“She was a respected family matriarch who sacrificed greatly for her children and earned the admiration of many people in her village because of her kindness,” he added.
Gachagua further revealed the painful timing surrounding the tragedy.
“It was only yesterday that I gave you an assignment to the United Kingdom, as my younger brother, only for you to arrive and receive the sad news. Please accept my heartfelt condolences at this difficult moment,” he stated.
Kega, who previously served as the Member of Parliament for Kieni Constituency for two consecutive terms, remains one of the most recognisable political figures from Nyeri County.
He rose to national prominence during the 2017 General Election when he became the only MP among the six constituencies in Nyeri County to successfully retain his parliamentary seat. Kega secured re-election with 66,203 votes, cementing his influence in the Mt Kenya political landscape.
However, his political career suffered a setback in the 2022 General Election when he lost his bid for a third term to Njoroge Wainaina Chieni amid shifting political tides in the region.
Kega currently serves as a member of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA).
The family is expected to announce funeral and burial arrangements in the coming days.
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