The mother of Nyeri Deputy Governor Caroline Karugu is dead.
Jacinta Wanjiku Karugu died on Wednesday, January 19 the family said in a statement.
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the sudden transition of our mother and best friend. We are distraught and shuttered but comforted by the words of Deuteronomy 31:8. Eternal rest grant unto Mom oh lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her,” the family said in a statement posted on Karugu’s Facebook account.
The family revealed that burial plans were underway. A number of political leaders also mourned the death of Wanjiku.
President Uhuru Kenyatta in a statement sent to media houses condoled with the family. In his message of comfort to the family, President Kenyatta described the deceased as an astute champion for the wellbeing of women and girls.
“It is with deep sorrow that I have been informed of the passing away of Mama Jacinta Wanjiku, the family matriarch of the Karugu family and a highly respected community leader who strongly supported the wellbeing and progress of women and girls,” he said.
Chinga Ward Representative Kiruga Thuku also mourned the death of Wanjiku. He said that the death of Wanjiku had shocked him beyond words as she was a close family friend.
“Anytime we were together, whether, at her relative’s place in Chinga where she was born and raised or at her Nyaribo home, she always exuded this special motherly love and always made me feel like her true son, very loved and always appreciated me as a good leader,” he said.
According to Thuku, Wanjiku was more of a mother to him.
He said that in as much as the death was really painful the family should take the time to celebrate her many achievements and also thank God for her wonderful blessed life.
“She was a mum to very many of us and we shall miss her motherly love and Warmth. To Carol and other family members, take heart and poleni Sana Sana,” he said.