[President Uhuru Kenyatta’s mother Mama Ngina Kenyatta in apast event. she is believed to be behind her son’s success in political arena. Photo/niaje.com]
Described as easy going and extrovert individual among his peers, President Uhuru Kenyatta’s success in politics can be directly attributed to his mother and former First Lady Ngina Kenyatta.
Uhuru, who is seeking reelection on a Jubilee ticket, will be facing a tough battle from his main rival and opposition flag bearer Raila Odinga.
And his cousin Ngengi Muigai, who first introduced Uhuru to politics in 1997, attributes the young Kenyatta’s success in leadership to his aunt Ngina Kenyatta.
“Uhuru had no interest in politics and I think my aunt (Ngina) is generally our mentor. She persuaded me to replace Mzee Jomo Kenyatta in 1978,” recalled Muigai in an interview with Sunday Nation.
He adds: “She may not be that active in politics but her advice is usually educative and keeps the young Kenyatta going. She has a vast experience in politics.”
Although her public appearances have significantly reduced, Ngina’s first appurtenance in as many years was seen when Uhuru was cleared by ICC over alleged crimes against humanity.
She would later on this year meet retired President Daniel Moi to persuade him to prevail upon his son Gideon Moi to go slow on Jubilee government.
And true to the assertion, Gideon, a fierce critic of Jubilee administration, has since backed Uhuru Kenyatta’s reelection.