The Weight of the Kenyan Presidency: Lessons from History and Looming Challenges

Kenya is in a precarious position, with challenges that many citizens either fail to see or actively ignore, akin to the proverbial ostrich burying its head in the sand. Looming issues threaten the nation’s stability, and at the heart of these problems lies a critical misunderstanding of the true role of the presidency. Without grasping the responsibilities and significance of this office, it becomes difficult to comprehend the crises Kenya faces today and how leadership decisions are propelling the country toward a cliff.

The presidency is more than just holding the nation’s highest office—it involves juggling multiple roles, including being a politician, administrator, economist, and symbolic "king." Neglecting even one of these functions can lead to disastrous consequences, as history has repeatedly shown.

Lessons from History: Leadership Missteps

A significant example is Mwai Kibaki’s presidency after the 2002 elections. Despite his promise, Kibaki failed in one critical aspect: being a unifying figure, or "king." After a fallout within his coalition government, he retreated to tribal appointments, alienating many Kenyans. This failure to embody national unity culminated in the 2007-2008 post-election violence, with devastating consequences. Kibaki's tenure limped to a close, marked by unrealized potential and a legacy overshadowed by the lives lost during the crisis.

Similarly, Uhuru Kenyatta’s journey to the presidency was shaped by lessons he absorbed growing up in State House. His firsthand exposure to leadership dynamics uniquely positioned him to recognize his early shortcomings, ultimately leading to the 2018 handshake with Raila Odinga. This restored his role as a unifying figure and cemented his legacy as a "king" in the eyes of many Kenyans.

The Current Challenge: William Ruto's Presidency

President William Ruto now faces a similar challenge but appears yet to recognize the importance of his symbolic role as "king." Early signs suggest a lack of cohesive national unity, which could have dire consequences. The presidency demands an acute understanding of Kenya's political, economic, and social intricacies, alongside the ability to command moral authority and inspire trust across the nation.

The Broader Context: The Role of the 2010 Constitution

The 2010 Constitution redefined the presidency, limiting its once-absolute power and making it harder to fulfill the "king" function. Leaders can no longer rely solely on constitutional authority; they must actively earn the respect and loyalty of the people through inclusive and visionary leadership.

Moving Forward

Kenya’s history provides invaluable lessons for its future. Leaders must prioritize national unity and balance their multifaceted roles effectively. Citizens, too, must demand accountability and leadership that transcends tribalism and short-term politics.

The weight of the presidency is immense, and its mishandling can cost the nation dearly. As history warns, failing to address the challenges at hand could lead to catastrophic consequences. Kenya stands at a crossroads, and only time will tell whether its leadership rises to the occasion or falters under the burden