Kenya's presidential lineage is a well-documented succession of five leaders: Jomo Kenyatta, Daniel arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta, and the incumbent, William Ruto, who took office on September 13, 2022. Among them, Daniel arap Moi holds the record for longevity, having steered the nation for an impressive 24 years. However, tucked away in the annals of Kenyan history is a fascinating, albeit brief, chapter featuring a man whose presidency lasted mere hours: Ezekiah Ochuka.
On the fateful morning of August 1, 1982, Senior Private Ezekiah Ochuka, a relatively low-ranking officer in the Kenya Air Force, orchestrated a daring coup attempt against the then-President Daniel arap Moi. Born on July 23, 1953, Ochuka had joined the military in 1976, steadily rising through the ranks to Senior Private Grade-1. It was from this position that he, backed by a contingent of fellow junior officers, briefly seized control of the nation, declaring himself the new head of state.
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For a mere six hours, Ochuka held the reins of power, marking an unprecedented and tumultuous interlude in Kenya's political trajectory. His audacious bid, however, was short-lived. Forces loyal to President Moi, comprising elements of the army and police, swiftly mobilized to crush the mutiny, restoring order and reinstating the established government.
The aftermath of the failed coup was swift and severe. Ochuka was apprehended and, following a trial for treason, was ultimately hanged in 1987. His execution solidified his place in history, transforming him into a poignant, albeit controversial, symbol of one of Kenya’s most dramatic and defining political chapters.
