Emilio Mwai Kibaki was born on November 15, 1931, under the British colonial government of Kenya.
He attended Makerere University in Uganda, where he was recognized by his professors as a strong economics student. He went on to the London School of Economics to further his education.
He worked as a teacher in his own country before entering politics in a country that had gained independence from colonial rule in 1964.
He became a congressman and held positions as finance minister, vice president, and leader of the opposition, making him one of Kenya’s most influential leaders of his generation.
He had run for the presidency twice before winning it in 2002, but both times he lost.
What Happened To Emilio Mwai Kibaki?
President Uhuru Kenyatta confirmed Kibaki’s death on Friday, calling it a “sad day for the country” and praising his predecessor as a great Kenyan and statesman.
The reason for death was not stated, but Kibaki had been in and out of hospitals as his health deteriorated in recent years.
“Mwai Kibaki will be remembered as a gentleman in Kenyan politics, a skilled debater, and a leader who guided the country’s progress,” Kenyatta said, announcing a period of mourning until his funeral.
“A true patriot whose legacy of civic responsibility will continue to inspire generations of Kenyans,” Kenyatta said of Kibaki.
Kibaki was the president of the East African country for two terms, from 2002 to 2013.
However, when he was re-elected to a second term in 2007, his victory was called into question by his opponent, Raila Odinga. Odinga claimed that the election was rigged and that he had actually won the election.
