NAIROBI, Kenya, April 1 – Former Kirinyaga Senator Daniel Karaba was laid to rest on Wednesday in a ceremony attended by prominent leaders, including former President Uhuru Kenyatta, ex-Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, and Wiper Party’s Kalonzo Musyoka.
Other top leaders present included Martha Karua, leader of the People’s Liberation Party (PLP); Eugene Wamalwa of the Democratic Action Party–Kenya (DAP-K); Justin Muturi of the Democratic Party (DP); and James Orengo, Governor of Siaya County.
Karaba, 78, who passed away on March 23, was remembered as a dedicated educationist and selfless public servant whose life was defined by humility, service, and leadership.
Born in 1948, he served as a teacher, principal, and education administrator before entering national politics.
He represented Kirinyaga Central in Parliament from 2002 to 2007 and later served as Kirinyaga County Senator from 2013 to 2017.
Speaking at the burial in Kirinyaga County, former President Kenyatta paid tribute to Karaba’s lifelong commitment to service.
“Karaba served this country not as a politician but as a selfless servant of the people. He was a true leader. Since his time as a teacher, he left an indelible mark,” Kenyatta said.
“While I was president, he was the strongest advocate for a 100 percent transition from primary to secondary school. He constantly pushed the agenda that education is a right for every child until they reach maturity and can stand on their own feet. I thank him for that and am glad we achieved what we did.”
Kenyatta used the occasion to urge the political class to rise above partisan divides, emphasizing leadership rooted in integrity and national unity.
“Be leaders, that is what the people of Kenya want. They want direction, peace, stability, and progress. Our utmost duty is to serve the citizenry and all Kenyans,” he said.
Former Interior PS Karanja Kibicho highlighted Karaba’s generosity and inclusiveness.
“Karaba was also my teacher, and he never tired of guiding people. Today, we honor that,” Kibicho said.
Former Speaker Justin Muturi noted Karaba’s fondness for children, while Siaya Governor James Orengo praised his good manners and sense of respect.
Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i described Karaba’s leadership as “practical and sensible.”
During the ceremony, former Deputy President Gachagua pledged to unify the Mt Kenya region under an opposition alliance, accusing President William Ruto of attempting to divide the region.
“We want one candidate, whether it is Martha Karua, Fred Matiang’i, Kalonzo Musyoka, or myself, it does not matter. Our focus should be unity,” Gachagua said.
“He [Ruto] has tried to divide our region between Mt Kenya East and West. I cannot allow that. If he succeeds, it will be the end for us.”
Gachagua also credited Kenyatta with helping reduce long-standing tensions between the Kikuyu and Luo communities, noting that about 1.3 million Mt Kenya voters supported opposition leader Raila Odinga in the last election under Kenyatta’s urging.
Karaba’s life and career left a legacy of education advocacy, public service, and principled leadership that many of his colleagues said should serve as a model for Kenya’s political class ahead of the 2027 general elections.
