Kenyan entrepreneur Anerlisa Muigai has issued a powerful message urging Kenyans to show humanity and compassion instead of mocking the deceased. Through her Instagram page last weekend, Muigai called on the public to respect the grieving family, emphasizing that death is an inevitable and solemn reality for all.
Muigai expressed her disappointment in the insensitivity displayed by some Kenyans who took to social media to ridicule Chebukati’s death. She reminded them that he was more than just a public figure he was a father, husband, grandfather, and friend whose loss deeply affects those close to him.
“You all seem to have forgotten that he was a father, husband, grandfather, friend, uncle, leader, etc. Why would anyone laugh at or mock him? Death is a very personal and sensitive matter. People should show respect, especially because there is a family mourning,” she wrote.
Her sentiments echoed those of Ezekiel Mutua, CEO of the Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK), who condemned the widespread mockery surrounding Chebukati’s death. Mutua lamented the moral decay evident in today’s society, questioning how people could harbor such resentment to the extent of celebrating someone’s passing.
“How did we morally decay to the point of speaking ill of the dead, hating people so much that we even wish death upon those who have already passed? Have we lost our humanity? How will we regain it as a nation?” Mutua posted.
Chebukati, who passed away while receiving treatment in a Nairobi hospital at the age of 63, had been a controversial figure in Kenya’s political landscape. However, his family, particularly his son Emmanuel Chebukati, has called for an end to the online ridicule. In an emotional video, Emmanuel pleaded with Kenyans to forgive his father if he had wronged them, urging them to show respect during this difficult time.
“I have never seen Kenyans come together to celebrate the death of a fellow Kenyan. I have seen people rejoicing and mocking us,” he said.
“For the first time, I have seen Kenyans celebrating someone’s death not the death of an ordinary person, but that of a leader who played a crucial role in advancing the country’s democracy.”
Emmanuel defended his father’s legacy, stating that Chebukati upheld the law and constitution in his role, making decisions based on legal principles rather than personal emotions. He expressed his sadness that, despite his father’s dedication, some Kenyans were using his death as an opportunity for mockery rather than reflection.
As Kenya navigates this moment, voices like those of Muigai and Mutua serve as reminders of the need for empathy and respect, even in times of political division. Chebukati’s family has requested privacy as they mourn their loved one, urging the nation to focus on kindness rather than division.
