Prof. George Saitoti is remembered as one of Kenya’s most influential leaders — a mathematician, academic professor, long-serving cabinet minister, and one of the longest-serving Vice Presidents in the country’s history. His contributions to Kenya’s politics, internal security systems, and economic reforms remain deeply felt even after his sudden and tragic death.
Early Life and Background
George Musengi Saitoti was born on 3 August 1945 in Kajiado District, in present-day Kajiado County. He was of Maasai ancestry and grew up in a pastoralist community before excelling academically and embarking on an academic journey that would take him across the world.
Education
George Saitoti was one of Kenya’s most educated politicians.
Primary and Secondary Education
He began his early education in Maasai land before securing opportunities in better-equipped institutions through academic merit.
University Education
George Saitoti pursued advanced education in both East Africa and internationally:
- University of Eastern Africa, Baraton – early university studies
- Brandeis University, USA – Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics
- Brandeis University – Master’s degree in Mathematics
- University of Warwick, UK – PhD in Mathematics
His academic work focused heavily on algebraic topology, earning him recognition as one of the best mathematicians in the region at the time.
Academic Career
Before joining politics, Saitoti served as:
- Professor of Mathematics at the University of Nairobi
- Chairman of the Mathematics Department
- Founding Head of the Department of Computer Science
His passion for education laid a strong foundation for Kenya’s STEM development, influencing generations of scholars.
George Saitoti Entry into Politics
Prof. Saitoti joined active politics in the early 1980s and quickly gained national prominence due to his intellect, calm demeanor, and strategic thinking.
He became an influential member of the Kenya African National Union (KANU) party under President Daniel arap Moi.
Positions Held in Government
Prof. Saitoti held some of the most powerful and sensitive positions in Kenya’s leadership:
1. Vice President of Kenya (1989–1997)
George Saitoti served as Kenya’s longest-serving Vice President after independence, playing a central role in economic planning, multiparty transition politics, and state administration.
2. Minister for Finance
Saitoti oversaw major economic reforms, including structural adjustment programs and budget stabilization efforts.
3. Minister for Internal Security
He led counter-terrorism reforms, police modernization programs, and worked to enhance national security systems.
4. Minister for Education
Saitoti spearheaded the Free Primary Education (FPE) program launched in 2003 under President Mwai Kibaki’s administration. The initiative enabled millions of children to access free basic education.
5. Member of Parliament for Kajiado North
He served as MP for decades, maintaining strong grassroots support across Maasai communities and the Mt. Kenya political networks.
The Goldenberg Scandal Accusation & Clearance
Saitoti’s political career faced turbulence during the Goldenberg scandal investigations, but a judicial commission later cleared him, stating he was not personally responsible for policy manipulation at the Ministry of Finance.
Despite the controversy, he rebuilt his political standing and became one of the most trusted cabinet members under President Kibaki.
Role in the 2013 Presidential Race
Before his death, Saitoti was preparing to run for President of Kenya in 2013. He served as the chairman of the PNU Party and expressed intentions to fundamentally transform Kenya.
His famous words during a political rally became iconic:
“There come times when the nation is more important than the individual.”
George Saitoti Death
On 10 June 2012, Prof. George Saitoti, together with his assistant minister Orwa Ojode and four others, died in a tragic police helicopter crash in Ngong Forest.
The circumstances surrounding the crash have long been debated, with inquiries suggesting technical errors, while some Kenyans suspect political foul play.
His death shocked the nation and remains one of Kenya’s most discussed political tragedies.
Legacy
Prof. George Saitoti is remembered for:
- Academic excellence
- Visionary leadership in education
- National security reforms
- Calm, steady leadership style
- Long-serving Vice Presidency
- His intellectual contributions to economic and political systems
He remains a symbol of discipline, resilience, and statesmanship in Kenyan leadership history.
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