This archive report was first published on 4 January 2022.
Kenya's first post-independence Attorney General Charles Mugane Njonjo has been criticized by veteran politician Koigi Wamwere for his role in shaping the country's economic and political systems.
Wamwere, a former Subukia MP who is vying for the Nakuru senatorial seat in this year's General Election, expressed his misgivings about Njonjo in an interview with the Star.
According to Wamwere, Njonjo's legacy is marred by his support for colonialism, capitalism, and dictatorship, which he believes have held Kenya back from achieving its full potential.
"Njonjo was very important to the destiny of this country after independence," Wamwere said. "He played a very important role in shaping the economic and political systems we would have."
However, Wamwere also criticized Njonjo for his role in suppressing dissent and opposition, particularly during the regime of President Daniel arap Moi.
"Njonjo helped to lock up patriots who were critical of the government, including the Seven Bearded Sisters who were thrown out of Parliament and ended up in detention camps," Wamwere said.
Wamwere also accused Njonjo of being a supporter of apartheid in South Africa and of having a racist attitude towards black people.
"Njonjo loved white and hated black," Wamwere said. "He even said he couldn't fly in a plane whose pilot was a black person."
Wamwere's criticism of Njonjo's legacy comes as the country prepares for this year's General Election, in which Njonjo's legacy is likely to be a major issue.
