Gideon Moi is a Kenyan politician and former Senator of Baringo County (2013-2022). He is the leader of KANU, a party once dominant under his father, former President Daniel arap Moi. Known for his political influence, Moi played a key role in national politics, aligning with Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga in the 2022 elections. Despite losing his Senate seat, he remains a key figure in Kenya’s political landscape.

Early Life and Education

Gideon Kipsielei Towett Moi was born on October 22, 1963, into one of Kenya’s most powerful political families. He is the youngest son of Daniel arap Moi, Kenya’s second president, and Lena Moi. Raised in a political household, Gideon grew up alongside his seven siblings: Phillip Moi, Jonathan Moi, John Mark Moi, Raymond Moi, Jennifer Jemutai Kositany, Doris Moi, and June Moi.

He pursued his early education in Kenya before furthering his studies abroad. His upbringing and education played a crucial role in shaping his leadership ambitions.

Entry into Politics and Rise to Leadership

Gideon Moi officially entered politics in 2002, taking over from his father as the MP for Baringo Central. His major breakthrough came in 2013 when he won the Baringo County Senate seat with a landslide victory of over 80% against Jackson Kosgei.

• In 2017, he successfully defended his Senate seat under the KANU ticket.
• As a senator, he served as the Chairman of the Senate ICT Committee, focusing on digital transformation and technological policies.
• In 2022, he ran for re-election but was defeated by William Cheptumo of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

Throughout his career, Moi has been known for his advocacy for national unity, economic growth, and modernization policies.

KANU Leadership and Presidential Ambitions

Gideon Moi is the party leader of the Kenya African National Union (KANU), a political party that once dominated Kenya under his father’s rule. His leadership has helped keep KANU relevant in Kenya’s evolving political landscape.

• He was groomed for leadership by his father, who saw him as a potential presidential candidate.
• In 2017, he aligned KANU with Uhuru Kenyatta’s Jubilee Party, despite internal party divisions.
• Ahead of the 2022 general elections, he initially declared his presidential candidacy but later stepped down to support Raila Odinga under the Azimio One Kenya Alliance.

Despite his 2022 electoral loss, Gideon Moi remains an influential figure in Kenyan politics, with the potential to make a future comeback in leadership.

Personal Life and Interests

Gideon Moi is married to Zahra Moi, and they have three children: Kimoi, Kigen, and Lulu. Unlike many public figures, he has managed to keep his personal life private.

Outside politics, he is a passionate sportsman, known for his involvement in polo. He has played for the Manyatta Polo Club in Gilgil, reflecting his interest in sports development in Kenya.

Legacy and Influence

Gideon Moi’s political journey and leadership have been shaped by his father’s legacy, yet he has established his own identity in Kenyan politics. His contributions include:

• Strengthening KANU’s position in modern politics.
• Advocating for technology and digital transformation as Chairman of the Senate ICT Committee.
• Supporting economic and social development policies for Baringo County and Kenya.

While his presidential ambitions were postponed in 2022, Gideon Moi remains a key political strategist, with potential future influence in Kenya’s leadership.