The family of former President Uhuru Kenyatta is mourning the loss of his brother-in-law, William Maina Gakuo.
“It is with deep sorrow and humble acceptance of God’s will that we announce the passing of William Gakuo,” an obituary in a local daily published on Saturday, November 9, stated.
Gakuo was the brother of Margaret Kenyatta, the wife of the former president. He was married to Sheila Wanjiku Mwangi and was an uncle to the late Noni, Jomo, Achola, Lena, Bulisa, Ngina, Alex, Muhoho, and Chizi.
According to the obituary, the Kenyatta family is expected to gather at Gakuo’s home in Karen on Saturday, November 9, and Sunday, November 10, for funeral preparations.
“The service will take place on Tuesday, November 12, at 10:00 am at the Hindu crematorium, followed by cremation,” the statement read in part.
As of the time of this article’s publication, the cause of Gakuo’s death had not been disclosed.
Though he kept a low profile, reports suggest that Gakuo played a significant role in the relationship between former President Uhuru Kenyatta and his wife, Margaret. It is said that Uhuru met Margaret through her brother, leading to their long-lasting marriage. Gakuo, who was Margaret’s only brother, had a striking resemblance to her.
Both Gakuo and Uhuru attended St. Mary’s High School, where they became friends. It was through Gakuo that Uhuru met Margaret, and their relationship blossomed from there.
“I first met her brother. We went to the same secondary school and quickly became friends. It was through him that I managed to meet his younger sister, and we started a relationship that has lasted from high school until now. I am thankful to God for that,” Uhuru shared in a past social media interaction.
Through Gakuo’s influence, Uhuru went ahead to marry his sister at the Holy Family Basilica in 1989.
