Emotional breakdowns mark burial of Akorino influencer Esther Elias
By Steve Ireri, January 23, 2026The burial of deceased Akorino influencer Esther Elias on Friday, January 23, 2026, was marked by emotional breakdowns as family members and friends struggled to cope with the loss.
The service began at Montezuma Monalisa Funeral Home, where her body had been preserved. Members of the Akorino fraternity arrived in large numbers to view her body ahead of the burial ceremony.
In a livestream shared on Facebook by Wokam 254, her husband, Pinchez Mwai, was seen being supported by two men moments after viewing her body. He appeared weak and unsteady before breaking down and sobbing uncontrollably as church members continued leading praise songs.
Other family members followed to view the body. Their reactions were equally emotional, with several collapsing and prompting mourners to step in and carry them away.
Some mourners wailed loudly, causing a scene at the mortuary, where other families were also waiting to receive the bodies of their loved ones.
After the body viewing, the procession moved to Kinyoho Secondary School in Kandara Constituency, Murang’a County, where the burial service was being held.
Emotions remained high at the venue as family members, friends, and people who worked closely with Esther took turns delivering emotional tributes as they remembered her as a loving mother and a God-fearing woman.
Untimely demise
According to her husband, Pinchez Mwai, Esther died on January 17, 2026, under unclear circumstances, leaving her family and followers in shock.
She was aged 26 and had recently tied the knot. Just weeks before her death, she had shared affectionate messages publicly expressing love and appreciation for her husband.
In a post shared on December 6, 2025, Esther reflected on her husband’s birthday. She thanked God for protecting him and praised Him for His faithfulness in their lives.
“To God be the glory and honour for protecting you. It has been a year since we last celebrated your birthday. Happy New Year to you, my love. May you continue to prosper, and may good health always be your portion, in Jesus’ name,” Esther wrote.
In the message, she wished her husband good health, prosperity, and many more years of celebration. She expressed how happy she was and signed off with love from herself and their child, affirming her deep love and support.
“Words cannot explain how happy I am. I wish you many more years of celebration. From Shii and me to you, darling, happy birthday. We love you so much,” she added.