Despite his alleged authoritarian rule that lasted for 24 years, retired President Daniel Moi gave his last and perhaps all time powerful speech on democracy and governance.

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When he took over from Mzee Jomo Kenyatta in 1978, Moi promised to emulate his predecessor, thus adopting Nyayo slogan.

But in 1982, Moi amended the constitution to make Kenya a single party state, a move that led to chaotic scenes and arrests of a number of politicians.

Due to pressure from civil society, political activists and international community, Moi paved way to pluralism in 1992, and subsequently won the polls.

In his last speech during Jamuhuri Day in 2002, Moi lectured politicians on the importance of adhering to certain philosophies within political parties.

The retired President said he had no intentions to stay in power, adding that those who believed that he was power hungry were misadvised.

"I said in 1998 that I will retire at the end of the five years term and many people didn't believe. They think that power in Africa cannot be given peacefully by those serving as Presidents.

"Power belongs to people. We are just their sponsors. I want to tell the advocates of democracy that you must have principles. It's bad that some of you shift parties. Look at every party keenly before making a decision," he said.

Moi had endorsed President Uhuru Kenyatta to run on KANU party. Uhuru lost to Mwai Kibaki, then under the powerful Narc coalition team.

During his address, Moi who had been at loggerheads with a number of politicians, vowed to forgive his critics, a move that thrilled his audience.

"I am leaving these hard politics, I'll be a good civilian. Those seeking power must avoid tribalism. If you abused me, I forgive you, if I wronged you, forgive me," he said.

The self proclaimed Professor of politics turned 95 recently and is one of the few surviving former Presidents from Africa. He lives in Kabarak.