G. G. Kariuki: A Historical Potrait of A Kenyan Politician

Abstract

Godfrey Gitahi Kariuki, popularly known as G.G., is one of the longest serving political leaders in Kenya’s post-independence history. Yet, like many of his political contemporaries, his contribution to the historiography of Kenya has been overshadowed by the history of leaders whose careers were defined in Kenya’s colonial experience such as Makhan Singh, Jomo Kenyatta, Jaramogi Odinga Oginga, Thomas Mboya ,Bildad Kaggia, among others. His life, political achievements ,limitations as well as contributions on the local and national front have not been analysed and documented. This book analyses the life history of G.G. Kariuki and how he contributed to Kenya’s struggle for independence. It also investigated the role he played in resolving land conflicts and the resettlement of squatters, particularly in Laikipia, as well as highlighting his rise and fall on the national political arena. Although, different stories have been told about him in different ways, like in his own autobiography: Illusion of Power, Fifty Years in Kenya Politics. This book through a thorough investigation, found it worthwhile to offer, a critical examination, an alternative perspective of his life story as a long term political operative.