Zakaria Kariuki alias KK Mwenyewe, a comedian who rose to prominence for imitating former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, has died.
KK passed on at the Kiambu Level 4 Hospital on Monday night after a short illness, according to fellow comedian and collaborator Kafengo.
“We are heartbroken to announce the sudden demise of Zakaria Kariuki, AKA Mr Kk Mwenyewe. He passed away yesterday evening while undergoing medical attention at Kiambu Level 5 Hospital,” Kafengo wrote on TikTok
“During these sad moments, we ask for support and prayers. To the family and friends, may God give us strength at this difficult time.
May his soul rest in peace.”Kariuki’s humorous depictions of the former DP had garnered him 1.1 million followers on TikTok and 412,000 more on Facebook.
KK last and final skit on both platforms was posted on July 4.His humour, often presented in sketches, resonated with many Kenyans as he embodied several other characters that were relatable to average Kenyans.
From imitating politicians to imitating teachers and even ordinary Kenyans alike, he had an audience for each of his skits that often garnered him hundreds of thousands of views, especially on TikTok.
Fellow comedians, fans and even politicians took to social media to mourn his death, with Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah hailing him as a comedian who used satire to hold a mirror to society, not to divide, but to awaken, educate, and unite.
