This archive report was first published on 3 January 2022.
Charles Njonjo, the Duke of Kabeteshyre, left an indelible mark on Kenyan society with his extravagant lifestyle, which he maintained until his death.
Having spent many years in the UK, where he studied law, Njonjo was exposed to the finer things in life. His father, Josiah Njonjo, was a Chief and was raised in a high-society environment, further influencing Njonjo's affinity for luxury.
Notably, Njonjo was fluent in English, with a distinct British accent. During his tenure as Attorney General and Minister, he was often seen wearing bespoke black suits adorned with floral patterns, courtesy of a UK-based tailor.
His wardrobe was characterized by black suits with custom-made floral patterns, emblazoned with the initials 'C' and 'N', a nod to his name. He paired these with a purple shirt, gold cufflinks, and a black tie, a look he maintained until his retirement.
Interestingly, Njonjo's close friends during his youth were predominantly of European and Indian descent, including the late Minister of Agriculture, Bruce McKenzie. McKenzie and Njonjo collaborated on a mission to liberate Israeli hostages held in Uganda in 1972.
It was in the same year that Njonjo married Margaret Bryson, at the age of 52, reportedly under pressure from the late President Jomo Kenyatta.
