Why Gachagua’s Tribute to Comedian KK Mwenyewe Faced Public Criticism
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua found himself at the center of public backlash after posting a condolence message mourning the death of popular Kenyan comedian Zakaria Kariuki, better known as KK Mwenyewe.
The tribute, which was meant to honor the late content creator, instead drew harsh criticism online shortly after it was shared.
On July 15, Gachagua issued a public statement expressing sorrow over Kariuki’s passing and praised the young comedian’s contribution to the entertainment industry. “I have this morning woken up to the sad demise of Mr. Zachariah Kariuki alias Mr. KK Mwenyewe, a content creator par excellence and inspiration to many,” his message read.
He further added, “Mr. KK, a young, consistent, and resilient young man, used comedy to communicate simple and creative messages to all Kenyans and spoke to our hearts.”
Despite the praise, many Kenyans took issue with Gachagua’s message, accusing him of being insincere.
Critics flooded social media platforms, questioning the timing of his tribute and suggesting that his message came too late—after the comedian had died, despite opportunities to help him while he was still alive.
Fueling the backlash was Mathira Member of Parliament Eric Wamumbi, who publicly claimed that he had reached out to Gachagua back in November 2022, asking for help on Kariuki’s behalf.
According to Wamumbi, he showed Gachagua KK’s content and pleaded with him to support the young man financially, help him pay his university fees, or even offer him a job.
Wamumbi recalled, “On November 3, 2022, this guy was fundraising for his university school fees. I approached you and showed you his content; he was imitating your speeches. I requested you to pay his fees, and what did you tell me?”
He added that instead of helping KK, Gachagua allegedly told his personal assistant to go and find the girl who came up with the nickname “Riggy G” for him, seemingly ignoring the comedian’s needs. This incident, Wamumbi suggested, highlighted a missed opportunity by the then-Deputy President to make a real difference in KK’s life.
These revelations only intensified the criticism against Gachagua. Many online users accused him of failing to recognize and support KK while he was still alive, despite the young man openly admiring and mimicking him in his comedy routines.
“You ignored him when he needed you the most. He tried to reach out, but you didn’t care. Now that he’s gone, please let those who supported him truly mourn in peace,” one social media user commented under Gachagua’s post.
KK Mwenyewe had built a fan base by comically impersonating Gachagua’s mannerisms and speeches, which endeared him to many Kenyans. His ability to deliver humorous yet relatable content made him a household name.
Sadly, the young comedian passed away on the evening of July 14 after a brief illness. He died while receiving treatment at Kiambu Level 5 Hospital. His death was confirmed by fellow comedian Kafengo, who wrote on Facebook, “We are heartbroken to announce the sudden demise of Zakaria Kariuki, AKA Mr. KK Mwenyewe. He passed away yesterday evening while undergoing medical attention at Kiambu Level 5 Hospital.”
The incident has sparked wider conversations in Kenya about the treatment of young artists and content creators, with many calling for more meaningful support from political leaders and public figures—not just words after death.
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