Fake death rumours about Kenyan activist Mercy Tarus have spread rapidly across social media, but the truth is clear: Mercy Tarus is alive, active, and well.
On June 7, 2026, former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Commissioner Roselyn Akombe debunked the death rumours.
Akombe said, “Keep thriving, Mercy!” on X, a message widely interpreted as confirmation that the activist was safe.
Nerima Wako also moved to calm growing anxiety, revealing that she had personally spoken to Tarus.
“I just spoke to Tarus. She is fine,” Wako said.
Who Is Mercy Tarus?
Mercy Tarus is an outspoken Kenyan activist and founder of the Kenya Ni Home Initiative.
She is a graduate of Kabarak University, who has become a vocal voice for Gen Z protesters demanding accountability and justice in Kenya.
In June 2024, Tarus was photographed leading protests against injustice on the streets of Nairobi.
Her activism has drawn significant attention and controversy.
In September 2024, she was found in contempt of court following her utterances about the Finnish education scandal, a case in which she served as a prosecution witness.
Tarus has also been vocal about scholarship scams affecting graduates.
In August 2023, she publicly lectured Uasin Gishu politicians over a botched uplifting program for graduates supposed to go abroad, paying her own school fees under the new regime in September 2022.
Why This Matters
Misinformation about activists’ deaths can have serious consequences.
It undermines their work, creates confusion among supporters, and can be used to silence voices demanding change.
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Tarus’s mother previously expressed worry about her daughter’s activism, calling her “outspoken” and noting she was “out on the streets once again”.
The Bottom Line
Mercy Tarus is alive. The death rumours are false and baseless.
Supporters and fellow activists should rely on verified sources and avoid spreading unconfirmed claims.
This fact check was verified using official social media statements and recent news coverage from Nation Africa, The Star, and Citizen TV Kenya.