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How do political dynasties impact African politics?

Kenya might be choosing a new head of state but the two main contenders are familiar names with strong political legacies - Raila Odinga and William Ruto

Political dynasties are an ongoing debate as Kenya elects a new president on August 9.

President Uhuru Kenyatta will leave office after 10 years in power.

He comes from a strong political legacy. His father was Kenya’s first president after independence – Jomo Kenyatta.

Among those vying to replace him are also familiar names on the Kenyan political scene.

The main contenders are Raila Odinga, whose father, Oginga Odinga, was Kenya’s first vice president.

The other main man in pursuit of the higher office, William Ruto, has been President Kenyatta’s deputy for 10 years.

But on the continent, Kenya isn’t alone or unique in having legacies and dynasties in politics.

Today on Africa Daily, Ferdinand Omondi is discussing the influence of powerful political families on African democracies.

Presenter: Ferdinand Omondi (@Ferdyomondi)
Guests: Sylvanus Wekesa (@sylwekesa) and Nerima Wako (@NerimaW)

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17 minutes

Podcast