An empty seat reserved for Raila Odinga at the VIP pavilion at Mama Lucy Kibaki's send-off in Othaya sparked criticism, with some questioning his absence. However, others argue that attention should be focused on another notable absentee: Daniel Toroitich arap Moi.
According to historical accounts, including those by Martin Meredith and Charles Hornsby, when Jomo Kenyatta's health began to decline, the Kiambu Mafia sought to prevent Moi, then Vice President, from succeeding him. Instead, they attempted to promote another Kikuyu candidate.
Power Struggle ¶
In the 1974 polls, key cabinet positions were allocated to prominent Kikuyu figures, including Mbiyu Koinange, James Gichuru, and Mwai Kibaki. Koinange, as Minister for State in the Office of the President, wielded significant influence, while Gichuru, as Minister for Defence, had previously handed over the reins of KANU to Jomo Kenyatta. Mwai Kibaki, as Minister for Finance and Planning, was seen as a compromise candidate due to his relative youth, intelligence, and humility.
Following Jomo Kenyatta's death in 1978, Moi became President and promptly reshuffled his cabinet, stripping Mbiyu Koinange of key powers and appointing Mwai Kibaki as Vice President. This move was seen as an attempt to calm Kikuyu nerves and secure Moi's position.
Legacy of Loyalty ¶
Mwai Kibaki's loyalty and professionalism during Moi's early days in office were instrumental in helping the new President navigate the complex web of Kenyan politics. However, their relationship later deteriorated, with Moi eventually turning against Kibaki.
The fact that Moi did not attend Mama Lucy Kibaki's funeral has raised eyebrows, given the significant role Mwai Kibaki played in supporting him during his early presidency. While some media outlets, such as The Daily Nation, have focused on Raila Odinga's absence, others argue that Moi's absence is more noteworthy, considering the history between him and the Kibaki family.
