The Enigmatic Powerbroker: Oscar Sudi’s Pivotal Role in President Ruto’s Administration
Every president, particularly in Africa, surrounds themselves with trusted individuals who can be given tasks, confided in, and manipulated when needed, especially when facing complex problems.
Kenya’s second president, Daniel Toroitich arap Moi, epitomized this dynamic. Around Moi were obedient individuals who danced to his tunes and followed his every wish without hesitation.
While these individuals served Moi, they also held significant power. They managed the president’s private schedule, handled his messes, dealt with troublesome people locally, and acted as intermediaries.
During Moi’s era, figures like Kariuki Chotara, Nicholas Biwott, and Mulu Mutisya played key roles. Not only were they members of parliament, but they also led Moi’s agenda and were integral to the government machine.
In President William Ruto’s administration, Oscar Sudi has emerged as the dominant force in State House power dynamics.
Since Ruto’s rise to power in August 2022, Sudi, a three-time MP for Kapseret, has become a prominent figure in major presidential events, showcasing his influence and command.
Sudi, who refers to himself as “Engineer,” indicating a designer or builder, fully embraces this title in his political world, demonstrating exceptional skill.
Images of Sudi alongside the president on a military plane confirmed his close relationship with the president. When questioned, he justified his presence, stating that traveling on government helicopters was not unusual for him.
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When General Francis Ogolla died in a helicopter accident, President Ruto addressed the nation on TV. Among the men standing beside him, all from the National Security Council, was Oscar Sudi, whose presence raised questions.
Sudi’s proximity to power has puzzled many, leaving them wondering about his specific role in Ruto’s administration and his true intentions.
Sudi appears to play a significant role in confronting Ruto’s critics, transforming the administration into a highly partisan entity, and challenging political obstacles.
Shortly after the elections, Sudi began a fundraising campaign across the Rift Valley, generously donating millions to various churches.
He quickly became known for supporting church projects, a practice also associated with President Ruto.
On March 17, Sudi raised funds at St. Francis of Asisi Ngara Falls Catholic Church, Ngeria Ward, contributing Ksh.3 million personally, while others added over Ksh.15 million.
A week earlier, on March 10, he led another fundraiser for the construction of AIC Fellowship Church in Kesses Constituency. Such fundraisers have since become regular.
In January, Sudi’s influence was evident when he led a group of youths to demolish structures on disputed land in Kamagut, Uasin Gishu County, despite a court order.
Sudi was reportedly acting on orders from the highest authority after a woman claimed ownership of the land and needed help evicting others. Only someone like Sudi could handle this task effectively.
In December, at the Kimalel goat auction in Baringo County, a photo of Oscar Sudi went viral. He was seen wearing stylish sunglasses, a green cap, and trendy sneakers.
He carried a designer sling bag across his chest, reportedly filled with money for goat purchases, suggesting he had the president’s funds.
Despite questions about his education, Sudi’s political acumen seems to rely more on his determination, creativity, and exceptional political skills.
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Online, Sudi is adept at using media to his advantage. A recent Instagram video showed him engaging with First Lady Rachel Ruto while President Ruto looked on.
As the two men walked to their seats in elegant suits, Sudi appeared confident and in control, living up to the “Engineer” title he adopted.
Sudi often shares photos of influential people visiting his Nairobi office, demonstrating his power through carefully orchestrated photo opportunities.
Even his fiercest opponents acknowledge his intelligence, strategic insight, and political pragmatism.
In a previous event, Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen praised Sudi’s cleverness despite his limited education.
“He’s very clever, and few ministers can compete with him,” Murkomen said to a laughing audience. “Some suggest Sudi should pursue a PhD, but it might lead to chaos. He’s fine as he is.”
Sudi combines precise political skills with a sense of fearlessness. In the national political landscape, he remains a key player whose actions and advice influence the nation’s direction.
The Enigmatic Powerbroker: Oscar Sudi’s Pivotal Role in President Ruto’s Administration