Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna met former President Uhuru Kenyatta and several opposition leaders during the burial of Martha Karua’s father, Mwalimu Jackson Karua, in Gichugu, Kirinyaga County.
Sifuna was among a number of prominent political leaders who attended the funeral service at Mugumo Primary School before the late Mwalimu Jackson was laid to rest at the Karua family home in Kathande.
Images from the ceremony showed Sifuna greeting Uhuru as the former president arrived at the venue. Former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza was also seen with the two leaders.
Other political figures present included Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s allies, Jubilee Party leader Fred Matiang’i, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro.
The gathering brought together leaders from different political formations at a time when opposition figures are exploring possible alliances ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Sifuna has recently been at the center of political discussions surrounding efforts to build a new opposition alliance, including his engagement with leaders associated with the emerging Linda Mwananchi political movement.
“We wish that we could still do those dances that they were doing in ’63. We wish that our generation also had the same joy; that the dream that we had achieved in 1963 was actually realised,” Sifuna said, reflecting on the time Kenya got independence.
Uhuru, who has largely kept away from active partisan politics since leaving office, used his address at the funeral to call for national unity.
He said Kenyans should remain united despite their political differences and emphasized that the people would ultimately determine the country’s leadership.
“My only wish is for Kenya to move forward as a united nation. I have no other agenda. You, the people of Kenya, will decide who should lead you,” Uhuru said.
The late Mwalimu Jackson Karua, who died on September 27 at age 98, was remembered as a teacher and disciplinarian who played a significant role in shaping his children and the wider community.
The burial provided an opportunity for leaders across the political divide to converge in honor of the late teacher and family patriarch.
