Former prison officer Jackson Kuria, popularly known as Cop Shakur, has shared a candid and emotional account of his struggles since losing both his job and business. The 27-year-old, who gained national attention for his role during the 2024 Gen Z protests, revealed how a series of setbacks has profoundly affected his life, leaving him in debt and heartbreak.
Financial Struggles and Business Setbacks
After being dismissed from the Service, Shakur attempted to venture into entrepreneurship, investing in a car hire business. However, accidents and repeated breakdowns led to significant financial losses. In a tearful video, he explained, “I have suffered setbacks for a couple of months. I have been trying hard as a young man, as a father, and as an activist. I have failed. I have really failed.”
He further disclosed that his debts now exceed one million shillings and that he had been subjected to auctioning after failing to repay creditors. At his lowest point, Shakur admitted to contemplating ending his life, but he found renewed purpose through his responsibilities as a father. “I realized I still had a purpose to fulfill — especially for the sake of my daughter,” he said.
Personal Losses and Emotional Struggles
The financial hardships also impacted his personal life. Shakur revealed that his marriage ended following his business collapse. “I was once married, but now I am alone. My wife cheated on me, and I do not blame her. I was not perfect. I focused too much on solving other things,” he shared.
He described the emotional toll, including isolation from family and avoidance of calls from his father out of fear of disappointment. “When you lose your family, you lose the people who give you the energy to go on. I have debts, I’ve been auctioned, but I know I will get through this one way or another,” he said.
Hope and Future Plans
Despite the challenges, Cop Shakur remains determined to rebuild his life. Earlier this year, he announced plans to transition from activism to politics, aiming to vie for the Kikuyu parliamentary seat. His goal is to enact meaningful change from within the system, and supporters have commended his resilience and courage in sharing his personal struggles publicly.
Shakur’s story has resonated widely, prompting empathy and reflection among Kenyans. His transparency serves as a reminder of the hardships young people can face while attempting to recover from major setbacks, and the importance of perseverance, hope, and self-belief in the journey forward.
