Riggy G In Deep Mourning Following Loss Of Close Relative

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is in deep mourning following the passing of his only surviving maternal aunt, Gladys Gathoni Kahua. In a profoundly emotional post shared on Saturday, June 28, Gachagua described the day as his “lowest,” grappling with the loss of an aunt who had stepped into a pivotal mother figure role after his own mother passed away in 2019.

Gachagua recounted receiving a distressing call at 3:00 am, informing him of his aunt’s critical illness. He immediately arranged for her to be rushed to Jamii Hospital in Karatina, planning to visit her later that day. Initially, he was told her condition was stable, prompting him to confidently depart for Karatina at 2:00 pm. However, a significant traffic jam near Ruiru delayed his journey by nearly 30 minutes.

The delay proved heartbreakingly significant. Gachagua arrived at the hospital only to be informed that his aunt had passed away at 4:05 pm – a mere five minutes before his arrival. “I was five minutes late. I have no one to turn to in this grief and pain. I have lost a mentor and a counselor,” Gachagua narrated in his poignant post.

According to the former DP, his aunt was far more than just a family member; she was his steadfast mother figure, prayer warrior, and unwavering cheerleader following his mother’s death. He fondly recalled cherished childhood visits to her farm, where she cultivated yellow passion fruits, earning her the endearing nickname “Tata wa Matunda” (the fruits’ aunt). Gachagua painted a vivid picture of their mornings filled with warm porridge, boiled maize, and laughter as they shared Mau Mau folktales and stories of the struggle in the forest.

He detailed that both his aunt and his late mother had been actively involved in the Mau Mau cause. His aunt was also instrumental in teaching him the Meru language, consistently reminding him of his deep Ameru roots.

Gachagua extended his heartfelt condolences to his aunt’s children, the village she hailed from, her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends. He has vowed to accord his aunt a befitting send-off, honoring her as a heroine who played a pivotal role in shaping both his personal life and his leadership journey. His sincere message has drawn an outpouring of sympathy and support, with Kenyans flooding the comment section to condole with the DCP party leader during his time of profound grief.