Gachagua in Mourning After Death of Only Surviving Aunt, His “Second Mother”

In a deeply personal and poignant statement on Saturday, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua announced the passing of his only surviving maternal aunt, Gladys Gathoni Kahua. Gachagua described the loss as the lowest point of his life, revealing that his beloved aunt had served as his second mother, mentor, and unwavering pillar of support since his own mother’s death in 2019.

The emotional update began with a harrowing 3:00 am phone call. Doctors initially assured the family that Gladys was stable, prompting a hopeful plan to visit later that day. However, Gachagua encountered a delay at a traffic jam near Ruiru. Despite racing to Jamii Hospital in Karatina, he arrived at 4:10 pm — tragically five minutes after her passing at 4:05 pm.

In a heartfelt tribute, Gachagua reflected on how his aunt stepped in as his guiding light and spiritual anchor, filling a void left by his mother’s death. He recalled childhood trips to her farm, where she cultivated yellow passion fruits, affectionately earning the name “Tata wa Matunda” (fruits’ aunt). He spoke fondly of simple mornings filled with porridge, boiled maize, and shared tales of Mau Mau heroism — stories that shaped his values and anchored his identity.

Beyond familial affection, Gathoni played a key role in nurturing Gachagua’s cultural roots. She taught him the Meru language and instilled in him a profound connection to his Ameru heritage, reinforcing traditions that continue to define him.

Expressing overwhelming grief, Gachagua wrote, “I have no one to turn to in this grief and pain. I have lost a mentor and a counselor.” His words underscored how deeply intertwined Gladys was with his life, both personally and professionally.

Extending solace to her family, he offered condolences to her children, grandchildren, and all who were touched by her kindness. As the Gathoni family mourns in the village she called home, Gachagua’s public eulogy reveals both a void and a lasting legacy — the imprint of a woman who shaped Kenya’s former deputy president in strength, character, and humility.

This breaking story comes amid political crosswinds surrounding Gachagua, whose impeachment in 2024 sent shockwaves through Kenyan politics. Yet today, grief transcends party lines, uniting the nation in empathy.