Kirinyaga Couple Killed in Accident While Returning from Ex-Senator Daniel Karaba Burial

A couple from Difathas village in Mwea East sub-county lost their lives in a road accident late on Wednesday night. Michael Mbugua Karaba and Felister Mbugua were riding a motorcycle back to their Murindiko home after attending the burial of their relative, former senator Daniel Karaba.

The crash happened on the busy Mwea-Embu Highway. Eyewitnesses told reporters that a vehicle carrying five adults and two children tried to overtake a lorry and hit the motorcycle. The car had come from Meru after another burial ceremony and was heading toward Nairobi.

Impact from the collision threw Felister off the road. Michael remained trapped under the motorcycle. Both died instantly at the scene.

Family members identified the bodies the following day. One relative, Martin Mwaura, described the loss as overwhelming. He said the family had only just buried Karaba and now faced another sudden death in the same circle.

Locals in the area have voiced growing worry about safety on that stretch of road. Resident Joseph Mwangi recalled a recent case where a schoolboy was killed in similar circumstances. He called on authorities to address the pattern of crashes.

Police moved both the vehicle and the motorcycle to Wanguru Police Station. Officers have launched an investigation into the exact circumstances. No further details on charges or arrests have been released so far.

Daniel Karaba died on March 23 at the age of 78. His burial drew several prominent figures from across the political spectrum. Retired president Uhuru Kenyatta and former attorney general Justin Muturi were among those who attended the ceremony in Kirinyaga.

Karaba built a long career in public service. He started as a teacher and school principal, later chairing the Kenya Secondary School Heads Association. Voters then elected him to two terms as Member of Parliament for Kirinyaga Central before he served as senator.

Muturi spoke at the burial about Karaba’s character. He noted the late senator’s ability to bring people together through humility and quiet strength rather than force.

The double loss has left Difathas village in mourning. Neighbours and relatives gathered after news of the crash spread on Thursday morning. The couple’s relatives described the timing as particularly painful so soon after Karaba’s funeral.

Road safety remains a recurring issue along the Mwea-Embu Highway. The route handles heavy traffic between Kirinyaga, Embu and other parts of central Kenya. Drivers often cite overtaking manoeuvres as a common hazard, especially at night.

Investigators continue to examine the scene and collect statements from witnesses. Results from any mechanical checks on the vehicles have not been made public.

The incident adds to the list of fatal crashes reported on Kenyan roads in recent weeks. Families in Mwea East say they hope the current probe will lead to visible improvements in enforcement and signage along the highway.