Freedom fighters’ caucus revives JM Kariuki legacy, pushes for Mau Mau Trust Fund and national recognition
Some of MMV Associates CLG members and JM Kariuki's wife at his graveside.
By DMS
The legacy of the late politician and former Nyandarua North Member of Parliament JM Kariuki has once again come into focus as members of MMV Associates CLG, a caucus bringing together former freedom fighters and their descendants, intensify efforts to preserve the memory of Kenya’s liberation heroes while advocating for their welfare and recognition.
A delegation led by the caucus Director General James Njuguna Mahuria is today scheduled to visit JM Kariuki’s widow, Dorcas Nyambura, to discuss several issues, including the revival of a proposed Mau Mau Trust Fund that the late legislator is said to have championed and served as custodian of during his lifetime.
The planned visit follows a series of engagements by the organisation aimed at advancing the interests of former freedom fighters and their families.
On Sunday, a section of the caucus members paid a courtesy call on Mrs Nyambura at her home in Nyandarua, where they honoured the memory of the former MP and acknowledged his enduring contribution to Kenya’s democratic and social justice struggles.
During the visit, members described JM Kariuki as one of Kenya’s most courageous and visionary leaders whose advocacy for social equity and the rights of ordinary citizens continues to inspire generations.
They noted that his political ideals remain relevant today, particularly in discussions surrounding inequality, governance and economic justice.
JM Kariuki remains one of the most celebrated figures in Kenya’s political history.
The former Nyandarua North MP was abducted and murdered in March 1975 under circumstances that remain among the country’s most controversial political assassinations. His body was later discovered in Ngong Forest, sparking widespread public outrage and raising questions that continue to resonate decades later.
He is perhaps best remembered for his famous warning that Kenya risked becoming “a nation of ten millionaires and ten million beggars,” a statement that has since become synonymous with the struggle against inequality, land injustice and the concentration of wealth and power.
Members of the caucus said their visit to the family was intended to honour JM Kariuki’s contribution to the country’s democratic development while reaffirming the importance of preserving the history and sacrifices of those who fought for justice and equality.
The planned meeting with Mrs Nyambura comes after the MMV Associates CLG members met at Blue Post Hotel in Thika. The meeting brought together dozens of representatives from all 47 counties to deliberate on matters affecting former freedom fighters and their descendants.
According to Mahuria, the delegates discussed various welfare issues, including anticipated compensation for freedom fighters. The organisation also opened official accounts as part of preparations for future programmes and initiatives aimed at supporting members.
Speaking after the meeting, Mahuria expressed optimism that discussions with JM Kariuki’s widow would help advance plans for the Mau Mau Trust Fund and other initiatives intended to benefit former freedom fighters and preserve Kenya’s liberation heritage.
The caucus is also expected to submit a petition on gender-related issues during a public participation forum organised by the Nyandarua County Government in Ol Kalou. The event will provide an opportunity for residents and stakeholders to contribute their views on the proposed Nyandarua County Gender Policy.
In addition, MMV Associates CLG plans to ppresent a separate petition to the National Heroes Council recommending several individuals for national recognition based on their contribution to the country’s social, economic and political development.
Among those nominated is JM Kariuki, whose legacy members believe deserves formal national recognition. The organisation argues that his commitment to social justice, accountability and equality left an indelible mark on Kenya’s political landscape.
MMV Associates CLG Chief Executive Officer Emmah Kassis said the list of proposed heroes and heroines was developed after carefully evaluating the nominees’ contributions to the country’s social and economic well-being.
Meanwhile, the public participation forum on the draft Nyandarua County Gender Policy is expected to attract residents, civil society organisations, development partners and other stakeholders interested in shaping the county’s approach to gender equality and social inclusion.
According to a notice issued by the Department of Education, Technical Training, Culture, Gender and Social Protection, the policy seeks to strengthen gender equality and create a framework for mainstreaming gender considerations in county planning, budgeting and service delivery.
County officials say the proposed policy will address key issues including gender-based violence, economic empowerment, equal access to opportunities, leadership, representation in decision-making processes and the inclusion of youth and vulnerable groups. The policy is also intended to align county programmes with the Constitution of Kenya, the National Gender Policy and international commitments on gender equality.
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