The death of Elvis Murakana Namenya, son of Dagoretti North Member of Parliament Beatrice Elachi, has triggered a wave of controversial reactions on social media, with many Kenyans expressing celebratory sentiments rather than condolences.

This response stems from past remarks made by Elachi, which have now ignited public outrage.

Elvis Murakana Namenya passed away on Tuesday, March 25, reportedly due to injuries sustained in a severe road accident.

He had been receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit.

President William Ruto and other leaders extended their condolences to Elachi.

However, the news of Namenya’s death was met with a starkly different reaction from many online users.

They recalled Elachi’s comments from a church service on Sunday, January 12, where she criticized those who spoke out against President Ruto’s administration amidst the country’s challenging economic conditions.

During that service, Elachi condemned what she perceived as disrespect towards the president, stating, “We must respect the president; he is our father. When you go abroad they wonder which country we come from.”

She further provoked public anger by suggesting that Kenyans dissatisfied with the country should leave.

“Those coming (foreigners) say Kenya is a good country…. but Kenyans are there complaining and not going away. If Kenya is bad why not leave, what are you doing here at a bad place, disappear. If you can not leave then know this is your country and there is no where else you can go,” Elachi said.

These remarks, made during a time of widespread economic hardship, were widely perceived as insensitive and dismissive of the public’s concerns.

Following the announcement of her son’s death, social media platforms were flooded with posts reminding Elachi of her past statements.

Many users expressed their reactions with emojis and comments suggesting that her son had “taken her advice” and “left Kenya,” referencing her earlier admonition.

The unusual and harsh public reaction highlights the deep-seated frustration and anger felt by many Kenyans regarding the current economic situation and the perceived disconnect between political leaders and the populace.

The incident has sparked a national conversation about the responsibilities of public figures and the consequences of their words.