Michael Mbugua Karaba, 52, and his wife, Felister Mbugua, 48, were killed on the night of Wednesday, April 1, while returning to their home in Murindiko village, Difathas, Mwea East sub‑county, sources said.
The couple had attended the burial ceremony of Karaba earlier that day and were travelling along the busy Mwea–Embu Highway when the crash occurred.
Eyewitnesses told reporters that the couple were riding on a motorcycle when a vehicle attempting to overtake a lorry struck them, causing fatal injuries at the scene.
Both were pronounced dead by emergency responders, officials said, and their remains were later taken to Wanguru Police Station as investigations continue.
A family member, Martin Mwaura, described the accident as a “double tragedy,” saying, “We have just buried Karaba, and now we are mourning two more people.” The comment was shared on social media by local media outlets.
Karaba, a respected educator and politician who served as Kirinyaga Senator from 2013 to 2017, was laid to rest on April 1 in a ceremony attended by senior Kenyan leaders, including former President Uhuru Kenyatta and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, according to coverage of the funeral.
The late senator died on March 23, 2026, at the age of 78 after a brief illness, his family confirmed. Tributes at the burial highlighted his contributions to education and public service across Kirinyaga County and beyond.
Local residents expressed concern over rising road accidents on the Mwea–Embu Highway, where the recent collision took place. Some urged authorities to strengthen traffic enforcement and improve signage to prevent further loss of life.
At this time, police investigations into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing, and no official statement on the cause has been released. Pending results and formal reports may clarify factors leading to the fatal collision
Post a Comment