The Gatekeepers of Power: Parallels Between Farouk Kibet and Wanyoike Thungu in Kenyan Political History

In the corridors of power in Kenya, certain individuals have emerged who wield influence far beyond their official titles. Two such figures, though from different eras, share striking similarities in their roles and impact on the presidencies they served: Farouk Kibet under President William Ruto and Wanyoike Thungu during the time of President Jomo Kenyatta. This article explores these parallels, examining their roles, influence, and the dynamics of their relationships with the presidents.

The Role of the Aide

Both Farouk Kibet and Wanyoike Thungu served as personal aides to their respective presidents, positions that often come with a considerable degree of informal power. Kibet, described as President Ruto’s right-hand man, has been known for his gatekeeping role, ensuring only those favored by Ruto get access to him. Similarly, Thungu was part of Jomo Kenyatta’s inner circle, acting not only as a bodyguard but also as an enforcer of the president’s will. Both men, despite lacking formal political office, have been pivotal in their administrations, controlling access to the president and influencing decisions behind the scenes.

Influence and Fear

The influence of Kibet and Thungu was marked by the fear and respect they commanded. Kibet’s reputation as a “dictator” within the corridors of power, where he could dictate who meets the president, mirrors Thungu’s fearsome presence in Kenyatta’s era. Thungu’s name was synonymous with the enforcement of Kenyatta’s authority, often through less than gentle means, including allegations of involvement in political assassinations and ethnic violence. Kibet too has been seen as a figure of authority, with stories of him managing political gatherings and even public events with an iron hand. His role in church fundraisers and political strategy sessions underscores his influence over who gets to engage with political power.

Loyalty and Political Ascension

Kibet’s journey with Ruto started in 1997, a relationship built on loyalty and shared political aspirations, which solidified his position as Ruto ascended to the presidency. Thungu’s loyalty to Kenyatta was established even before independence, during the struggle for freedom, where he was part of Kenyatta’s security detail. Both men have been described as fiercely loyal, with their fortunes tied closely to those of the president. Thungu’s role in the post-independence government was more covert, dealing with security and political enforcement, while Kibet’s influence is more public, managing political strategy and public relations.

Public Perception and Controversy

Both individuals have not escaped controversy. Thungu was implicated in various political scandals, including the murder of JM Kariuki, while Kibet has been linked to corruption allegations, notably the NYS scandal. Their actions have often been seen through the lens of protecting or advancing the interests of their principals, sometimes at the cost of public trust or legal repercussions. The public’s perception of these men oscillates between awe for their power and criticism for their methods.

Cultural and Historical Context

The role of men like Kibet and Thungu in Kenyan politics also reflects a cultural archetype of the strongman or the “man behind the throne.” In an environment where political power is centralized around the presidency, these aides become indispensable in managing the complex machinery of government and politics. However, while Thungu operated in the context of post-colonial Kenya, where the political landscape was less transparent and more autocratic, Kibet functions in a Kenya with a more robust media and civil society, which scrutinizes such roles more openly.

Farouk Kibet and Wanyoike Thungu, though from different epochs in Kenyan history, share a narrative of power, loyalty, and the complex interplay between personal aides and the presidency. Their stories highlight how individuals can become cornerstones of political power, influencing not just the day-to-day operations but also the broader political landscape. As Kenya continues its democratic journey, the roles of such figures will be continually debated, analyzed, and perhaps reformed, reflecting the evolving nature of political power in the nation.