Martha Karua, a towering figure in Kenyan politics and law, known as the "Iron Lady" for her unwavering stance on justice and good governance, has had a public life marked by significant professional achievements and, like many public figures, a romantic history that has occasionally drawn media attention. While fiercely private about many aspects of her personal life, certain relationships have become part of her public narrative, reflecting different phases of her journey.
Karua's romantic journey began with her marriage to Dr. Charles Kamau Njoka. The exact timeline of their marriage is not widely publicized, but it is known to have occurred in the 1980s. Together, they had two children, a daughter named Wawira and a son also named Njoka. This period saw Karua embrace both motherhood and her burgeoning legal career. Reports indicate that she even campaigned as "Martha Njoka" during her early political career, before reverting to her maiden name, Martha Karua, after their divorce. The marriage to Dr. Njoka ultimately ended, though the specific reasons for their separation have remained largely private. Dr. Njoka is reportedly deceased.
Following her divorce from Dr. Njoka, Martha Karua entered into a relationship with Justice GBM Kariuki. This relationship became publicly known and lasted until its contentious end in 2008. The circumstances surrounding their breakup drew significant media attention, with reports suggesting a bitter parting. According to various media outlets, including a report by The Standard, Justice Kariuki claimed that Karua, who was then a cabinet minister, instigated his arrest and malicious prosecution after he ended their relationship. This incident highlighted the challenges public figures face when their personal lives intersect with their professional roles, especially in a high-profile legal and political context. The case against Justice Kariuki was eventually dismissed due to lack of evidence, with some reports suggesting pressure from the then-Justice Minister.
Since the conclusion of her relationship with Justice GBM Kariuki, Martha Karua has maintained a single status. She has publicly stated her disinterest in remarriage, emphasizing her focus on her political career, advocacy, and family. In interviews, she has often reiterated that being single has not hindered her ability to be a devoted parent and a successful public servant. > "I am not interested in marriage; it's not my priority at the moment," she once stated, according to various media reports. This stance reflects a conscious decision to prioritize her personal autonomy and professional commitments over a traditional marital partnership.
Karua's relationships, though few and largely kept out of the intense public glare compared to some celebrities, have nonetheless provided glimpses into the personal life of a woman who has dedicated decades to public service. Her journey reflects a pattern of strong, independent women navigating complex personal lives alongside demanding public careers. While her romantic history has had its share of public moments, Karua has consistently projected an image of resilience and self-sufficiency, preferring to let her work and principles speak for themselves. Her current focus remains firmly on her political activism, her role as a senior counsel, and her family, including her children and grandchildren, with whom she shares a deep affection. The "Iron Lady" continues to be a formidable presence in Kenyan society, with her personal life remaining largely private, save for the publicly acknowledged chapters of her past.