How Mwai Kibaki's moment of genius in a Nairobi bar altered Kenya's history

Presidential Library, Museum, and Exhibitions recently took to Twitter to disclose an intriguing chapter from Kenya's political past.

The revelation revolves around the untold story of former President Mwai Kibaki’s involvement in the drafting of the Constitution that laid the foundation for the Kenya African National Union (KANU) party.

According to the post, Mwai Kibaki, in a 2002 interview with the Christian Science Monitor, shared an anecdote recalling a memorable evening in early 1960.

Kibaki reminisced about visiting the African Corner Bar on Race Course Road with a group of friends, seeking a relaxed atmosphere to unwind and share conversation.

Former President Mwai Kibaki Former President Mwai Kibaki Pulse Live Kenya

During the casual gathering, an extraordinary idea emerged among the friends – the notion of creating a constitution for the future.

Seizing the moment, they borrowed stationery from the bar counter and embarked on the unexpected task of drafting a document that would ultimately shape the course of Kenya's political landscape.

READ: Kibaki's habits that differed from Presidential traditions

Little did Kibaki and his companions know that their impromptu brainstorming session at the African Corner Bar would evolve into the birth of KANU, a political party that played a significant role in Kenya's struggle for independence and post-colonial development.

While the specifics of the document drafted that evening may not have been the final version, it undoubtedly contributed to KANU's ideological framework, guiding principles, and objectives.

With Kanu struggling to find its footing, Kibaki was brought in to restore order at the party's headquarters.

Former President Mwai Kibaki. [Tony Karumba/AFP Getty Images] Pulse Live Kenya

At just 29 years old, Kibaki made the bold decision to leave his teaching position and return to Nairobi in December 1960.

In recognition of his dedication and the party's widespread popularity, Kanu presented Kibaki with a remarkable gift—a Peugeot 404.

READ: How former President Mwai Kibaki shared his multi-million

Reflecting on his time with Kanu in a 1995 interview, Kibaki fondly recalled the extensive travels and relentless work demanded of him during his tenure.

The Peugeot 404 provided him with reliable transportation as he crisscrossed the country, covering an impressive distance of 4,000 kilometres within just one month

The African Corner Bar, once an ordinary establishment at the time, now holds a place of significance in Kenya's political narrative as the birthplace of KANU's Constitution.