If you write a book about Mt Kenya politics and it lacks a chapter about Mwai Kibaki or the Kibaki family, then the book will be incomplete.
Kibaki was the third president of Kenya and also served as the MP for Othaya Constituency from 1974 to 2007.
Now that Kibaki, who made history as the longest serving MP, has retired from active politics, it is high time his family endorsed someone who can step in his shoes and continue his legacy.
The Kibaki name is too significant in Central Kenya politics and shouldn't be allowed to just wither away. The appropriate person to step in those shoes is Kibaki’s eldest son Jimmy Kibaki.
Here's why:
1) Kibaki played an important role in shaping the country's politics. Jimmy is a prominent figure who can convince the Nyeri electorate to vote for him in any elective position.
This will be a tremendous way to thank Kibaki for his contribution to the country as his son will have a chance to continue the legacy his father left after serving as Othaya MP for over three decades and as Head of State for two terms.
2) Jimmy Kibaki has gained a lot of leadership skills from his father.
This is evidenced by the manner in which he handles the family’s bulky business enterprises and the oratory skills he displays whenever he's given a chance to make a public address.
I hold the notion that he has what it takes to venture into active politics. This is largely attributed to his zeal for social, political and economic development for Mt Kenya region and Kenya at large.
3) He has links that will be of great assistance in attracting donors and investors to Mt Kenya.
Jimmy will champion for economic development in Central Kenya and fight for sufficient development programmes in the region.
I believe that should Jimmy make that bold step of venturing into politics, the Mt Kenya electorate will accord him positive reception putting in mind the legacy of his father.
#hivisasaoriginal