Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is facing backlash following his condolence message to the late comedian KK Mwenyewe.
Gachagua, who is currently on a trip to the United States, mourned the content creator in a post on X, describing him as a talented youth who used humour to connect with Kenyans.
“Mr. KK, a young, consistent, and resilient young man, used comedy to communicate simple and creative messages to all Kenyans and spoke to our hearts. I send my deepest sympathies to his family and his friends at this difficult moment,” he wrote.
But the message was met with criticism online, with many accusing him of failing to support KK while he was alive.
“Why recognize him in death when you couldn't when he was alive?” asked Alinur Mohammed.
I have this morning woken up to the sad demise of Mr. Zachariah Kariuki alias Mr. KK Mwenyewe, a content creator per excellence and inspiration to many.
— Rigathi Gachagua (@rigathi) July 15, 2025
Mr. KK, a young, consistent, and resilient young man, used comedy to communicate simple and creative messages to all Kenyans… pic.twitter.com/EFSBLjlJSX
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@bookten8 added: “He tried to reach out to you, but you ignored him. Let those who stood with him mourn in peace.”
“Stop the hypocrisy. You failed to acknowledge him when he was alive, yet now you’re posting lengthy condolences. Spare us the crocodile tears,” wrote @phiamax.
Gachagua was also reminded of his decision to offer a job to Ivy Chelimo, who coined the popular “Riggy G” nickname, while KK went unnoticed despite promoting him through satire.
“This is the lady who replaced my name with ‘Riggy G’. I looked for her and gave her a job at my office,” he had previously said, describing Kenyan youth as highly resourceful.
Chelimo, in response, encouraged young people to be proactive in their pursuit of success: “Don’t sit down and expect opportunities to come to you. Run after activities as the youth because there is so much in this government to do.”
KK Mwenyewe reportedly passed away while undergoing treatment at Kiambu Level 5 Hospital.
Despite the online storm, Kenyans continued to share heartfelt tributes to the fallen comedian, whose life ended too soon.