Kimani, who served Raila faithfully for 17 years, recalled their last interaction on Friday, August 1, 2025. It was a normal day at the barbershop, yet one that would later become deeply significant.
As Raila settled into his usual seat for his simple number-two haircut, he asked Kimani what he desired most in life. After weeks of reflection, the barber finally gave his answer.
“I told him I wanted to shave President William Ruto one day,” Kimani said, remembering how Raila smiled and encouraged him. According to Kimani, Raila responded with one powerful reassurance: "It is possible".
It was the last promise Raila ever gave him a gift of hope and belief from a leader known for uplifting those around him.
For Kimani, the words have since become a priceless treasure that now carries even deeper meaning following Raila’s sudden death.
On that same visit, Raila extended his generosity to strangers as well. A young boy, Maliq Ahmed Ibrahim, who was waiting for a haircut with his father, recalled how Raila politely asked to cut the line, calling him by name.
After his shave, the veteran politician paid for every customer in the shop and tipped the entire staff generously.
“Little did we know it would be the last time to see him,” Maliq’s father said.
Since Raila’s passing, Kimani says the barbershop feels emptier, the laughter gone, and the famous leather seat now a painful reminder of a leader who valued ordinary Kenyans.
Online, Kenyans have responded with emotion, praising the bond between Raila and his barber and celebrating Baba’s humility even in his final days.
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