Former Attorney General Charles Njonjo was known for his polished character and affinity for the finer things in life.
Former Defence Minister Njenga Karume narrates in his autobiography - From Charcol to Gold - that he once invited Njonjo to his palatial home in Cianda, Kiambu County.
Karume, cognizant of Njonjo's preference for foreign beer, had imported crates specifically for the AG's pleasure.
To Karume's surprise, when he offered Njonjo a drink, the attorney sent out for a special silver mug that he carried with him everywhere.
After the guests had consumed to their satisfaction they began to leave for their own homes.
Njonjo, who had drunk a fair share of alcohol forgot his special silver mug and what should have been a small matter was blown out of proportion.
The next day, on realising the mug was missing, Njonjo called the then Central PC, David Musila, who was a close aide of President Daniel Moi and demanded that the mug is found.
The PC then transmitted the orders to his DC who then communicated to the DO that the hunt for the mug was on.
The mug was found eventually found in Karume's kitchen where a staff member had put it.
On receiving the good news, Njonjo insisted that the PC personally bring it to his house in Muthaiga - never mind Musila did not know the AG's address!
Karume writes that what surprised him most about the entire incident was that his home neighboured Njonjo's farm and instead of the State House official calling upon his own farm staff to investigate the matter, the then AG involved the whole provincial administration.
Njonjo was one of the most powerful government officials between 1964 and 1982 when he served as Attorney General and for a short period - as Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs.
He is credited with helping Moi assume the presidency by blackmailing the "Change Constitutional Movement" that wanted to block the Vice President from automatically becoming President upon the passing on of a President.
During Moi's Presidency, he continued to be a powerful figure, often riding in the President's official car - sometimes without informing the head of state.
He was unceremoniously removed and disgraced after Moi accused him of betrayal by working with foreign nations to stage a coup.
