Rigathi Gachagua loses his maternal aunt
By Kenneth Mwenda, June 28, 2025Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is in mourning following the death of his only surviving maternal aunt, Gladys Gathoni Kahua.
In a deeply emotional message shared on his X account on Saturday, June 28, 2025, Gachagua described the loss as one of the lowest moments of his life since the passing of his mother in 2019.
“Today, I am at my lowest since I lost my mother,” he wrote. “I was called at 3.00 a.m. last night and informed that my only surviving Aunt Gladys Gathoni Kahua had been taken ill.”
Gachagua said he had advised that she be rushed to Jamii Hospital in Karatina Town and planned to visit her at 4 p.m. that same day. Unfortunately, he was caught in traffic and arrived just minutes too late.
“I was called by the doctors and requested to hurry since she had said her time on earth was ending. I struggled and got to the hospital at 4.10 p.m., only to be told I was 5 minutes late. My aunt left us at 4.05 p.m.”
Aunt, mentor and matriarch
The DCP Party leader paid a heartfelt tribute to Aunt Gathoni, describing her as a mother figure, mentor, and spiritual guide.
“She has been my mother, my mentor, my cheerleader, and a prayer warrior so loving,” he said. “We used to call her ‘Tata wa Matunda’ (the fruits’ aunt) because of the yellow passion she grew on her farm, which we dearly enjoyed.”
Gachagua fondly recalled their shared moments, especially the morning walks and breakfasts at her home.
“We would laugh to her folktales, Mau Mau struggle songs, and unending stories of her time in the forest with my late mother during the fight for independence.”
He said Aunt Gathoni always reminded him of his Meru roots and urged him to stay connected with his extended family.
“She used to tell me I was ‘Kiana Kia Mwari’ (son of a daughter) and encouraged me to reunite with our Meru family.”
Ending his tribute, Gachagua expressed sorrow and emptiness.
“I feel hollow, down, and abandoned. I have lost a mentor and a counsellor,” he wrote. “We will give you a befitting and dignified send-off for the heroine you were to us.”
“May the Almighty God rest your soul in eternal peace.”