Remembering Tom Mboya: A Historic Speech, Assassination, and Kenya's Legacy

 

 On April 18, 1959, a young Kenyan named Tom Mboya delivered a speech at the Washington Monument in the United States. At just 29 years old, Mboya stood at the heart of America, amidst the fervor of the Civil Rights Movement, to express Kenya's solidarity with African Americans in their struggle for equality. His message highlighted the shared aspirations of Kenya’s fight for independence and the American Civil Rights Movement.

At the time, Mboya’s words may have resonated with few Americans, but they underscored the interconnectedness of global struggles for justice and freedom. Reflecting on this historic event today offers us a chance to understand the depth of Kenya's history and the sacrifices made for its independence. Unfortunately, many young Kenyans today lack this historical perspective, which could explain why some engage in divisive political propaganda for meager financial gains, oblivious to the nation's hard-fought journey.

The Assassination of Tom Mboya

Fast forward to July 5, 1969, a decade after his monumental speech, Mboya's life was tragically cut short. He was assassinated in broad daylight on the streets of Nairobi. The events leading to his death and the aftermath reflect the complex political tensions of the time. Mboya, after working at his office that morning, headed to a chemist near what is now Commonwealth House to purchase ointment for a skin condition. As he exited the pharmacy, two gunshots rang out. Eyewitness accounts confirm the presence of two gunmen at the scene, both strategically positioned to ensure the assassination's success.

One of the suspects was described as wearing an American khaki jacket, tight at the wrists and waist. Security analysts believe this man was Ben Gethi, then head of the General Service Unit (GSU), a paramilitary unit closely tied to the government. Gethi, a skilled marksman trained in Israel, is suspected to have fired the fatal shots. The operation was meticulously planned, with a fall guy, Nashon Njenga, swiftly apprehended, tried, and executed for the murder. This orchestration ensured no direct links to the government, but it left Kenya in mourning and significantly altered the country’s political trajectory.

Revisiting the Scene

Photographs from July 4, 1969, show Mboya confidently striding across the tarmac at Embakasi International Airport upon his return from Addis Ababa. The very next day, he was gunned down in a well-coordinated plot. Questions linger about the intelligence failures that failed to warn Mboya of the looming danger. Despite multiple previous threats, he was not advised to avoid the chemist or to stay out of the country.

Implications for Kenya

Mboya’s assassination marked a turning point in Kenya’s history. His death highlighted the culture of impunity and political violence that continues to cast a shadow over the nation. Following his assassination, celebrations were reportedly held by those who viewed his death as a political victory. This dark chapter shaped Kenya’s political landscape, raising questions about justice, accountability, and the sacrifices made by those who dared to dream of a better future.

A Call to Learn from History

Understanding figures like Tom Mboya and events like his assassination is vital for young Kenyans today. History provides a lens through which we can understand our nation's challenges and chart a course for the future. Let us honor the legacy of leaders like Mboya by embracing their vision for unity, justice, and progress.