Farouk Kibet: The Man Who Runs Kenya From the Shadows
No figure in President William Ruto’s inner circle commands as much fear, awe, and influence as Farouk Teigut Kibet — the man many now call Kenya’s invisible co-president.
Operating from behind the scenes yet wielding unmatched power, Kibet is more than just the President’s Personal Assistant. He is the iron-fisted gatekeeper of State House, the kingmaker whose word moves ministries and whose presence sends chills through the spines of Cabinet Secretaries.
The Co-President Nobody Voted For
Farouk’s grip on power is so strong that even high-ranking officials openly acknowledge his control. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently described him as the man truly calling the shots: “He wanted to run my office. The government of Ruto is run by Dennis Itumbi and Farouk Kibet. They work in cahoots with the President.”
Gachagua didn’t stop there. “Everybody reports to him; the IG of Police, Head of Public Service and Cabinet Ministers. William Ruto issues instructions to Cabinet Ministers through Farouk Kibet,” he revealed in a bombshell interview.
From Village Councillor to Statehouse Powerbroker
Farouk’s rise to the heights of political influence has been nothing short of meteoric. Once just a local councillor and footballer, he is now the man behind Ruto’s every move, personally running events, commanding senior officials, and managing crises in real time.
At rallies and state functions, Kibet is often seen barking orders, physically repositioning ministers, and restoring order — all while wearing his signature scowl. Videos circulating online show him pushing Cabinet Secretaries into place, dragging leaders off red carpets, and storming into chaotic scenes with calculated fury.
Nicholas Biwott Reborn?
Many compare him to Nicholas Biwott, Moi’s feared “Total Man.” Like Biwott, Kibet operates in secrecy, rarely granting interviews, yet shaping national policy with unmatched power. “If Farouk closes the State House doors, you’re not getting in — not even if you’re a Cabinet Minister,” Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wa once warned.
The Shadow That Silences Opposition
Even the top brass tread carefully around Kibet. Rumors of confrontations, like the alleged altercation with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and recent footage showing Kibet ejecting CS John Mbadi from a State event, have only added to his legend.
Despite the swirling controversies and whispered fears, Kibet has never publicly addressed his growing list of critics. His silence only strengthens the mystery — and his control.
A Future in Politics?
Observers believe Farouk might be preparing for his own political run, given his regular appearances at church fundraisers and political events where he commands the attendance of top leaders. But whether he steps into the limelight or remains the shadowy force behind the throne, one thing is certain:
As long as William Ruto is in power, Farouk Kibet will remain the man to watch — and perhaps, the one truly in charge.
In Kenya’s corridors of power, Farouk isn’t just part of the story. He is the story.
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Farouk Kibet: The Man Who Runs Kenya From the Shadows