Kenyan comedian Zakaria Kariuki, popularly known as KK Mwenyewe, has died. He passed away on Monday night at the Kiambu Level 5 Hospital after a short illness, fellow comedian and close friend Kafengo confirmed.
“We are heartbroken to announce the sudden demise of Zakaria Kariuki, AKA Mr KK Mwenyewe,” Kafengo wrote in a Facebook post. “He passed away yesterday evening while undergoing treatment. During these sad moments, we ask for support and prayers. May his soul rest in peace.”
KK Mwenyewe became an overnight sensation in 2022 while studying at Kisii University after a parody of then Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua became viral. His sarcasm, large suits, and signature potbelly gestures won the hearts of the people, attracting over 1.1 million TikTok followers and over 400,000 Facebook followers.
Apart from Gachagua, his skits also touched on everyday Kenyan life from class lectures to matatu drivers with humor having the beat of society.
The comedian had risen quickly to fame, getting media programs and recognition from public figures, including Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, who once paid his university fee arrears.
Following his passing, fan tributes, colleague tributes, and political tributes poured in. Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah described him as a cultural analyst, employing satire to reflect society onto itself not split, but shed light.
“Kenya has lost not just a comedian, but a young brave patriot, may his light continue to provide courage and creativity to those whom he leaves behind,” Omtatah tweeted.
So far Gachagua has said nothing regarding the death of the young man whose impersonations had led him to fame.
The exact nature of the illness that killed Kariuki is yet to be revealed, though pictures of him ill in hospital have been trending on social media.
