Kenyan comedian KK Mwenyewe, best known for his viral impersonations of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has died after a short illness.
He was pronounced dead Monday night at Kiambu Level 4 Hospital, according to a fellow comedian and longtime collaborator, Kafengo.
In a heartfelt message, Kafengo said, “rest in peace brother, you will forever be in our hearts. To the family and friends, may god give us strength during these hard times.”
Mwenyewe, whose real name was Zachariah Kariuki, gained national attention on social media in 2022 for his sharp, humorous takes on political satire, often mimicking Gachagua’s distinctive speaking style and mannerisms.
Details about his illness and final moments are still emerging, but tributes continue to pour in as people remember his unmatched wit and creativity.
KK Mwenyewe rose to prominence soon after the Kenya Kwanza administration assumed power, gaining attention for his sharp comedic timing and spot-on political impressions.
His growing popularity sparked public hopes that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua would recognize and support his talent.
However, in a past interview with Jeff Kuria, Kariuki revealed that such support had not come to fruition.
Kenyans Mourn death of KK
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has mourned the death of comedian Zakaria Kariuki, popularly known as Mr. KK Mwenyewe, describing him as a courageous and talented artist whose work resonated with a generation.
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“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Zakaria Kariuki, popularly known as Mr. KK Mwenyewe, a young and talented comedian whose voice resonated with the spirit of a generation,” Omtatah said in a statement. “Through satire and art, Mr. KK courageously held a mirror to society, using humor not to divide, but to awaken, educate, and unite.”
Omtatah praised KK’s sharp political wit and authenticity, calling him “not just a comedian, but a cultural commentator and a brave young patriot.”
“Kenya has lost a powerful voice,” he said, offering condolences to KK’s family, friends, and the creative community. “May his soul rest in peace, and may his light continue to inspire courage and creativity in those he leaves behind.”
Who is KK Mwenyewe
KK Mwenyewe is graduate from Kisii University. Speaking during an interview with Dr. Ofweneke on TV 47, KK stated that he is studying Computer Science.
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“I am a computer science student, people don’t think that I do that course, they think I’m a joker,” he said in his Riggy G character voice.
On TikTok he has over 1 million followers and close to 20 million likes, making him one of the fast-rising content creators on the platform.
Speaking during an interview with Citizen Digital, KK Mwenyewe said his friends pushed him into mimicking DP Gachagua.
He was not sure whether he’ll pull it off, but after consistent pressure from his friends, he decided to join an online challenge and emerged as an internet sensation with most of his videos going viral.
“It came super easy for me. My friends advised me to take up the Gachagua challenge and I pulled it off. I then decided to keep it up since everyone seems to be enjoying them so much,” he told the publication.
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