This archive report was first published on 7 July 2020.
On July 6, 2020, Baringo Senator Gideon Moi led a Kenyan delegation to the inauguration of Malawi's new president, H.E Lazarus Chakwera, at Kamuzu Barracks. The senator's delegation included notable figures such as Kanu Secretary-General Nick Salat and the recently appointed Senate Majority Leader Samuel Poghisio.
As a symbol of friendship and diplomacy, Senator Moi presented President Chakwera with four well-crafted gifts, including a golden flask, two golden lapels, a golden notebook, and a pen to match. The items were emblazoned with the KANU insignia and the name of the Malawian President.
President Chakwera and Senator Moi held private talks at the new president's office, where Senator Moi delivered a message from President Uhuru Kenyatta. The two leaders also engaged in bilateral talks to strengthen ties between Kenya and Malawi, with Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS), Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Ababu Namwamba joining them for the discussions.
Notably, President Chakwera's Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and Moi's KANU share a long history, with both being independence parties of their respective countries. The new Malawian President was among dignitaries who attended the funeral of former President Daniel Arap Moi on February 12, 2020.
President Chakwera and Senator Moi are said to be bosom friends, sharing political ideologies and a strong bond. The Malawian Head of State garnered 58.57% of votes cast against incumbent Mutharika's 39% in the repeat poll.
Senator Moi's gift to President Chakwera has been interpreted by political pundits as a move to groom him for a top seat in 2022. The gesture has been seen as a significant moment in the strengthening of ties between Kenya and Malawi, with both countries sharing a long history of friendship and cooperation.
