Former National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) Director Mithamo Muchiri faced public backlash after posting an insensitive message on social media following the death of comedian Zachariah Kariuki, popularly known as Mr. KK Mwenyewe.
Mr. KK, widely recognized for his satirical impersonations of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, passed away on Monday while receiving treatment at Kiambu Level 4 Hospital.
His death prompted an outpouring of grief from fans and fellow entertainers, who praised his creativity and unique contribution to Kenyan comedy.
However, Muchiri’s Facebook post struck a nerve. Instead of a solemn tribute, he wrote:
“I was about to eulogize the deceased comedian but I’m told he has been shouting one term. Meaning alikuwa na fitina. May he rest in peace.”
The comment, seen by many as mocking the late comedian, was swiftly condemned online.
Although Muchiri later deleted the post, screenshots had already been widely shared.
Mr KK Mwenyewe imitated Gachagua (R).
In what appeared to be an attempt to deflect blame, Muchiri followed up with another post:
“Huku kwa mitandao Admin akikumess kidogo unatandikwa kama mbu,” suggesting he may not have authored the original message himself.
He later tried to strike a more conciliatory tone, writing:
“For those of you who are new on this page, here we eulogize the deceased and we condole with the bereaved. Here we preach empathy. We preach peace, unity and tranquillity.”
But the damage had already been done. “Too late to undo the damage,” one follower, Weyusia Nas Munanga, replied.
“Wait until it’s your turn,” warned Ian Mungai. “Until it hits you… that’s when you’ll understand the pain of losing someone,” added another commenter, Soni Soni.
Muchiri’s ‘tribute’ that sparked outrage.
“Wisdom is not inversely proportional to…,” Njoroge Ruto noted, leaving the rest unsaid but clear.
Gachagua, currently in the United States, joined the nation in mourning the fallen entertainer.
“I have this morning woken up to the sad demise of Mr. Zachariah Kariuki alias Mr. KK Mwenyewe, a content creator par excellence and an inspiration to many,” he said in a statement.
Late comedian Mr KK Mwenyewe.
“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.”.
