Profile of Dixon Kihika: The Fearless Politician Who Had Eight Wives, 41 Children, and Served Three Constituencies
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Dixon Kihika Kimani (born circa 1930) stands out as one of Kenya’s most influential, controversial, and charismatic political figures.
He built a powerful legacy through bold leadership, grassroots dominance and a political career that stretched across decades of transformation in post-independence Kenya.
From shaping Rift Valley politics to influencing national succession debates, Dixon Kihika Kimani operated at the centre of power during the eras of Jomo Kenyatta and Daniel arap Moi, where he emerged as a fearless and unpredictable political force.
Kihika Kimani made history by becoming one of the few Kenyan MPs to represent three different constituencies over his political lifetime. He served in:
- Nakuru North (1974–1979)
- Laikipia West (1992–1997)
- Molo (1997–2002)
This rare political journey reflected both resilience and deep-rooted influence in Rift Valley politics.
It also reinforced his reputation as a leader who could adapt, survive shifting political tides, and maintain strong grassroots support across different regions.
1976 Power Shake-Up Led By Dixon Kihika Kimani
In 1976, Dixon Kihika Kimani escalated into national headlines when he led the controversial “Change the Constitution” movement.
Through this campaign, he attempted to block then-Vice President Daniel Arap Moi from automatically assuming the presidency in the event of Jomo Kenyatta’s death.
The move triggered political tension across the country and positioned him as one of the most daring political actors of his time.
Instead of backing down, he embraced confrontation and solidified his image as a fearless challenger of political succession systems.
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Ngwataniro Land Power
Beyond parliamentary politics, Kihika expanded his influence through land mobilization.
He founded the Ngwataniro land-buying movement, which helped many Kikuyu families acquire land in the Rift Valley during the post-independence period.
Through this initiative, he strengthened community settlement, built political loyalty and influenced development projects such as Jomo Kenyatta High School in Bahati.
A Political Family Like No Other
Kihika Kimani’s personal life mirrored his larger-than-life political presence.
He married eight wives and fathered about 41 children, among them Susan Kihika, who later rose to become a major political leader in her own right.
She first served as the Senator of Nakuru County and currently serves as the Governor of Nakuru County, becoming the county’s first female governor and continuing the family’s political influence.
Kihika’s wives included Nyambura Kihika, Lucy Wangari, Jane Wanjiru, Miriam Warau, Charity Nyambura, Margaret Wambui, Winnie Wanjeri and Alice Kihika (Susan’s mother)
In a remarkable political twist, he even sponsored six of his wives to contest parliamentary seats in different constituencies, turning his household into an unusual but powerful political network.
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Wit, Boldness, and a Fearless Public Image
Kihika consistently commanded attention with his sharp humour and direct communication style.
During one encounter at his Engashura residence, a Standard Group photographer questioned whether he had fathered a young child he was holding.
“Tondu niwe undeithitie gugaciara?” he responded in Kikuyu.
Loosely translated to: “Are you the one who helped me sire him?”
This moment captured his personality: confident, witty and completely unafraid of public scrutiny.
Death and a Long-Running Estate Battle
Kihika Kimani died on November 19, 2004, after complications related to diabetes.
His passing triggered one of Kenya’s most prolonged inheritance disputes, as he left no clear written will.
His vast estate became the subject of long court battles among his widows and children, exposing the complexity and magnitude of his wealth and family structure.
Kihika Kimani remains a towering figure in Kenyan political history.
He served as a rare MP across three constituencies, influenced national succession debates, and built powerful land-based networks that shaped settlement in the Rift Valley.
Even today, his legacy continues through Susan Kihika and through the political conversations his life continues to inspire.
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Susan Kihika, Nakuru governor and daughter to The Late MP Dixon Kihika Kimani. PHOTO/ Susan Kihika