Farouk Kibet is a well-known figure within President Ruto's inner circle. Political figures often describe him as the go-to person if you want access to the man in the house on the hill. However, recently, he raised eyebrows after being spotted taking photographs at a rally.
In a video circulating online, Kibet is seen atop a media vehicle that was part of President Ruto's convoy, holding a DSLR camera, aiming and taking photos-seemingly of the crowd ahead. This has sparked a lively debate among Kenyans online, with many questioning both his actions and intentions.
Some social media users speculated about Kibet's motive, with one commenter wondering if he was trying to show that the crowd was larger than it appeared.
@kimoigabriel commented: "Wants to get the best angle that shows the crowd is huge."
Another questioned whether Kibet's role might be more than just capturing photos, considering his influence in the political sphere.
Farouk Kibet is no stranger to the corridors of power, having been by President William Ruto's side throughout much of his political journey. His influence is significant, with reactions from those who have worked with him ranging from admiration to wariness.
While some view him as a skilled organiser, others describe him as a key figure in political strategies, helping to determine who speaks and what they say.
Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro once described Farouk's influence: "Ofisi ya Farouk ni ile ya Rais wetu wa Kenya. Kwa sababu huwezi fikia Rais Farouk akisema no. Ata huyu Deputy President rafiki yangu kufikia yeye (Ruto), Farouk lazima aseme yes."
Farouk is also no stranger to online discourse. A video once trended on social media showing him interrupting Mandera Governor Mohamed Adan mid-speech and instructing him to hand over the microphone to area MP Hussein Weytan.
Earlier this year, another video showed Deputy President Kithure Kindiki being directed by Farouk towards President Ruto at Ngeria TTC in Kapseret.
In the clip, Farouk is seen urging Kindiki to go stand behind the President and join him as he danced with traditional dancers. Just moments before, Farouk was seen whispering something to the Deputy President.
