Peter Kenneth is a renowned Kenyan politician who has risen to become one of the most respected people in the country. He comes from Murang’a County in Gatanga constituency. For many years, Kenneth has earned greatness by his own merit especially in the political history of Kenya. He has always associated himself with clean politics; one of the reasons why his popularity in Kenyan politics remains unique and almost matchless.
Peter Kenneth Early Life and Details Of His Parents
On 27 November 1965 was when Peter Kenneth was born in Bahati. It was here that the man who would grow up to be regarded as muthungu (white man) because of his ways of doing things, began his life. Peter was raised by a single parent – his mother, with whom he lived in a single room apartment. His tough upbringing is perhaps, what contributed to his desire to work hard and make a difference in other people’s lives, especially those who are less privileged.
Peter Kenneth got his first education from the Bahati Uhuru Primary Schools. From there he proceeded to the Starehe Boys’ Centre and School for his secondary education, and then to the University of Nairobi where he graduated with a Bachelor of Law.
Peter was a great footballer, especially in his youthful years. While still in school, he was a goalkeeper and played for a Football club in Kenya called Reunion. During his period of play, he helped Reunion reach great heights in football. He only retired from football after a threatening arm fracture that he sustained while playing for the club.
On graduating from the University of Nairobi, Peter went to Switzerland to run an Executive Programme at the International Institute for Management Development.
Despite being a prominent person, many Kenyans do not know that Peter Kenneth is a qualified banker. The politician has served as an employee of Nationwide Finance Company for two years (1985 and 1986). He also worked for Prudential Bank for a period of 11 years where he was elevated to the post of Bank manager. His banking career also saw him work for Kenya Reinsurance Company from the year 1997 until 2002.
In addition to his banking career, Peter Kenneth also served as the chairman of the Kenyan Football Federation (KFF). KFF is one of the toughest organizations to be in charge of because of the unpredictability of the Kenyan football. But Peter, with his amazing leadership skills was able to chair the federation from 1996 to 2000. During his period of chairing, the Kenyan football team produced one of its best performances. Unfortunately, however, he was unable to see the Harambee Stars to any major continental or world tournament or even win any major trophy.
Peter Kenneth ventured into politics in 2002 when he vied for the Gatanga parliamentary seat in the 2002 general elections, emerging victorious as a lawmaker and representative of the constituency. Apart from being an M.P, he was also appointed an Assistant Minister at the Ministry of Finance as well as the Ministry of Planning & National Development. During his term of service as an M.P, his constituency was declared the best in terms of funds management.
Peter Kenneth’s political ambitions became more evident when he vied for the presidency in 2012. He made history by becoming a presidential candidate in Kenya without an African name. Even though he lost to President Uhuru Kenyatta, his impact was felt all over the political divide.
Indeed, it can plausibly be argued that Peter Kenneth is a political icon in Kenya and one who represents the voice of the voiceless. This was evident in his campaign manifestos that emphasized on equality and great opportunities for the poor. Even though he did not make it in the general election, he is still perceived as one of the leaders who have what it takes to change Kenya and take it to a better level.
Despite the fact that many politicians are always unable to find time for religious matters, Peter Kenneth has been on the frontline when it comes to church matters. He is a staunch Christian and this is the reason why he is perceived as a more God-fearing leader in Kenya. According to his son Andrew, Peter Kenneth has raised his children with strong Christian values.
Peter Kenneth’s Family: Son, Daughter & Wife
Peter is married to Anne and is a great family man. The couple has two children namely; Andrew and Andrea. It was his son, Andrew that introduced him during the launch of his Presidential bid in 2013. Both his son and daughter share the same charisma that he has and that has been working for him through the years.
Despite his busy political career, the politician has been able to balance things by always being there for his family. This is evident because he usually include his family in all the important occasions and his wife is always there to support him.
Thanks to his hard work and education which prepared him for a lot of challenges, Kenneth is a man of great wealth. He made his wealth mainly from the banking and financial sector where he has worked for a long time.
