EXPLAINER: Why Gachagua Faces Backlash After Mourning Impersonator Comedian
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has faced criticism for his condolence message to the late comedian Zakaria Kariuki, better known as KK Mwenyewe.
The surprising critique came just hours after Gachagua posted a tribute to the departed content creator.
On July 15, Gachagua issued a statement recognizing Kariuki’s significant contributions to Kenyan humor.
“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,” the former Deputy President stated.
However, Gachagua’s public remark drew widespread condemnation online.
Many Kenyans rushed to social media to voice their displeasure, questioning the timing and sincerity of his condolences.
I have this morning woken up to the sad demise of Mr. Zachariah Kariuki alias Mr. KK Mwenyewe, a content creator per excellence and inspiration to many.
— Rigathi Gachagua (@rigathi) July 15, 2025
Mr. KK, a young, consistent, and resilient young man, used comedy to communicate simple and creative messages to all Kenyans… pic.twitter.com/EFSBLjlJSX
“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,” he added.
Gachagua’s message elicited diverse reactions from citizens.
The uproar began when Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi called out Gachagua, stating that he approached him in November 2022 and asked him to financially support Kariuki.
Wamumbi stated in the article that he also asked Gachagua to give Kariuki a job and assist him in paying for his university tuition, but the then-DP turned down the proposal.
“On November 3, 2022, this guy was fundraising for his university school fees,” Wamumbi stated.
“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?” Wamumbi posed.
“I pleaded with you that it was just content creation, and that is the time you told your PA to look for the girl who coined the name ‘Riggy G’,” he added.
Others accused Gachagua of ignoring Kariuki and failing to support him while he was alive and in need of assistance.
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“You failed to recognize him when he was alive, he tried to reach out to you, but you ignored. Let those who stood with him mourn in peace,” a netizen said in the comment.
Kariuki, famed for impersonating Gachagua, died on Monday night, July 14, in Kiambu Level 5 Hospital, following a brief illness.
Zachariah Kariuki, known as KK Mwenyewe,
— DP 🇰🇪 (@DanChepta) July 15, 2025
A comedian famed for mimicking Rigathi Gachagua, has died.
He was truly funny. pic.twitter.com/UpUGdNRcWa
“We are heartbroken to announce the sudden demise of Zakaria Kariuki, AKA Mr Kk Mwenyewe,” fellow comedian Kafengo wrote on Facebook.
“He passed away yesterday evening while undergoing medical attention at Kiambu Level 5 Hospital.”
EXPLAINER: Why Gachagua Faces Backlash After Mourning Impersonator Comedian
