The Kenyatta family has been struck by tragedy with the passing of William Gakuo, the 48-year-old brother-in-law of former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Gakuo was found deceased at his Karen residence in Nairobi on November 6, with police reports indicating death by suicide. According to reports, his wife Sheila Wanjiku Mwangi discovered him in the corridor near their bedroom, where a suicide note was also found. Law enforcement officials have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. In a statement, the family announced “It is with deep sorrow and humble acceptance of God’s will that we announce the passing of William,” noting that he leaves behind siblings Gabriela, Maina, Christine, and Margaret.
Final arrangements have been made for his cremation at the Hindu Crematorium in Kariokor, Nairobi, scheduled for November 12. Gakuo’s life was marked by a distinguished family heritage. Born in Kangema constituency, Murang’a County, he was the son of Dr. Ephantus Njuguna Gakuo, who made history as Kenya Railways Corporation’s first African managing director in 1964, and Magdalena Njuguna, who was of German descent. Notably, Dr. Njuguna played an instrumental role in introducing Uhuru Kenyatta to his future wife Margaret, a connection that would shape the future of Kenya’s prominent political family.
This tragic event draws attention to the growing global concern over suicide, which the World Health Organization recognizes as a leading cause of mortality. Various factors contribute to such tragedies, including unemployment, academic stress, financial difficulties, legal troubles, and mental health conditions such as depression and bipolar disorder. Mental health professionals emphasize the critical importance of seeking help when experiencing suicidal thoughts. Mr Maina, a longtime friend of Mr. Gakuo, describes him as a low-key person who valued his privacy. He said Mr. Gakuo was generous, disliked being in the public eye, did not enjoy political discussions, and only appreciated conversations that aimed to empower people.
Mr. Maina reveals that Mr. Gakuo often kept to himself but was always willing to share with his friends, who affectionately referred to him as the only white person with a Kikuyu name. Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu stated that Mr. Gakuo’s passing was a loss for Murang’a County, as the Gakuo family had strong ties to the region, even at the county assembly level. Murang’a County Assembly Speaker Johnson Mukuha also expressed his condolences.
