Kikuyu traditional elder Mzee Githui Karue, a prominent cultural figure in Central Kenya who gained national attention after storming Parliament precincts during the Gen Z protests last year, has died.
Karue died yesterday at Consolata Hospital Mathari near Nyeri Town, where he had been receiving treatment for the past few days, family members said.
His death marks the end of a life that combined the preservation of Kikuyu traditions with outspoken public activism, making him one of the most recognizable elders in the region.
Karue became a household name in June last year when he walked into the Parliament precincts during demonstrations led by Gen Z protesters. Dressed in traditional regalia and carrying symbols associated with Kikuyu elders, his appearance drew widespread public attention and sparked debate over the role of elders in national affairs.
Although the protests were largely driven by young Kenyans demanding better governance and accountability, Karue’s participation was viewed by many as a symbolic gesture of solidarity between generations.
Beyond his political activism, Karue was a familiar figure at Kikuyu traditional ceremonies across the Mount Kenya region. He regularly presided over or participated in cultural rites, blessings, reconciliation meetings and community gatherings, where he advocated for the preservation of Kikuyu customs, values and identity.
Many residents regarded the former freedom fighter as a custodian of indigenous knowledge and traditions, often inviting him to officiate cultural events and offer counsel on matters affecting families and communities.
News of his death prompted an outpouring of tributes from cultural leaders, residents and Kenyans on social media, who described him as fearless, outspoken and deeply committed to preserving Kikuyu heritage while speaking on issues affecting ordinary citizens.
His son James Karue said his father fell sick on Thursday last week and was admitted to a Nairobi before being transfered to the Nyeri facility over the weekend.
He said he suffered stroke twice within hours which resulted to his hospitalization.
Scores of his friends led by a former freedom fighters and their descendants caucus; MMV Associates CLG Director General James Njuguna Mahuria and Spiritualist Wambugu Nyamu alias MΓΊkui Mondo sent their condolences to his family.
Mahuria noted that the late Karue was his long time friend and a confidant.
“We regularly met with him and I benefitted from his wise counsel,” Mahuria noted.
On Monday, Mahuria sent a delegation from his caucus to the hospital to visit him, an indication that they were close friends.
On his part, MΓΉkui Mondo posted on his Facebook page, “Rest in peace Guka wa GEN Z Mzee Karue. You were among the AgikΕ«yΕ« high priests that believed in reverenve to Jehova him i call Murungu Mwene Nyaga ,who stood for Uthamaki wa ThayΕ« and peace. You taught me a lot. RIP Awa. You served Ngai with dedication and was an ambassador of peace,”.
Funeral and burial arrangements are expected to be announced by the family later.
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