Power and the Presidency in Kenya

Reviews / Votes

'Power and Presidency in Kenya is an important contribution to the historiography of decolonization and of Kenya's post-colonial political landscape. But it also helps us better understand how presidential systems amass and enact power. Anais Angelo has written a lucid, engaging book of great interest to historians and political scientists alike.' Daniel Branch, University of Warwick 'Anais Angelo combines an insightful analysis of the political imagination and political style of Jomo Kenyatta with a vivid portrayal of infighting among the elite around him. Her study provides a rare glimpse into politics at the summit of an African regime.' Frederick Cooper, New York University and author of Africa Since 1940: The Past of the Present 'In this newly researched book Dr Angelo persuasively enters into the controversies surrounding the first Kenyatta's presidency, to portray it as a power created by a political elite who had no authority other than his peculiarly enigmatic charisma and who then exploited it in their own self-interest, with an eye to insuring their privileges against the uncertain future that lay ahead without him.' John Lonsdale, University of Cambridge '... Angelo's work is succinct and focused. It offers insight into the modern formation of executive power that extends beyond Kenya and the African continent.' Riley Linebaugh, KULT online 'This impressive work will have a reach beyond Africanists. It demonstrates how scholars can respond to methodological challenges with creativity.' Kara Moskowitz, The Journal of Interdisciplinary History