Meru has lost one of its longest-serving and most respected leaders with the passing of Councilor Mzee John Kirimi M’Murungi, popularly known as JK, who died in 2025 at the age of 88.
Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, H.E. Dr. Musalia Mudavadi, described the late councilor as “an institution within the greater Meru area” and “a giant in Meru leadership” whose life touched education, business, politics, and community service.
Mudavadis condolence message was delivered by his Special Advisor, Kibisu Kabatesi, during the burial service held at Kithirune Primary School in Meru. The service brought together a cross-section of leaders, including Methodist Archbishop Emeritus Lawi Imathiu, former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza and several local and national leaders, who joined residents in paying their last respects.
Mudavadi noted that JK devoted the longest part of his 88 years on earth to politics, serving as a Councilor in both the Meru Municipal and Meru County Councils from 1983 to 2013. Remarkably, he was nominated throughout the three decades, an achievement the Prime Cabinet Secretary said reflected his admirable character and trustworthiness.
“The greatest political tribute to JK is that for the 30 years he served as a Councilor, he was always nominated. This speaks to his affable character that earned him the trust of Government regimes across three decades,” said Mudavadi.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary recalled his personal interactions with the late councilor during his tenure as Minister for Local Government between 2008 and 2013. “It is during part of this period that I came to know JK as a diligent leader. I often sought his advice on the running of the Meru County Council,” he said.
Mudavadi emphasized that JK’s contribution went beyond politics, pointing to his broader service in national and community institutions. “Throughout this illustrious political career, he also had in his kofia public service as Director at the National Irrigation Board; a member of the National Executive Council of Njuri Ncheke and Founder and Executive member of the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Meru Branch,” he said.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary added that these milestones buttressed JK’s legacy of commitment and sacrifice for the greater good. “These few snapshots of JK buttress his legacy of exemplary dedication to serve, that younger generations ought to desire,” Mudavadi said.
He prayed for strength and comfort for the family, relatives, and friends of the departed leader. “May God comfort you in this difficult period. We pray that his soul rest in eternal peace. And may we find comfort in the deep impact he made on so many lives,” Mudavadi said.
Mudavadi described the late leader’s life as one defined by trust and responsibility, noting that his leadership left an indelible mark on Meru’s political and social fabric. “Late John Kirimi M’Murungi , whom we popularly knew as JK was indeed a giant in Meru leadership,” he said.
At the service, leaders present also reflected on JK’s long service, describing him as a steady hand in politics and community life. Methodist Archbishop Emeritus Lawi Imathiu noted that JK’s life was one of “service without self-interest,” while former Governor Kawira Mwangaza said the councilor was “a leader whose humility and wisdom united people.”
Cllr. John Kirimi M’Murungi’s passing marks the end of an era in Meru’s history. Fondly remembered as JK, he leaves behind a legacy deeply woven into the county’s political, cultural, and economic life.