Peter Salasya on His Political Journey: From Shy Boy to Public Figure

• Peter Salasya shared the story of how his political career started with modest charitable activities while he was studying at Egerton University.
• The Member of Parliament for Mumias East disclosed that political deception in his locality spurred him to pursue a position in elected office.
• Salasya discussed the difficulties encountered by younger lawmakers in Parliament and suggested an interest in taking on more significant political positions.

Kenyan journalist Ivan Mboto from .co.ke has accumulated more than three years of expertise in covering politics and contemporary issues in Kenya.

In a narrative reminiscent of a fairy tale metamorphosis, Mumias East Member of Parliament Peter Salasya has recounted the evolution of a formerly introverted student into an energetic political figure.

During an appearance on Classic 105 FM, Salasya mentioned that when he was still in his early schooling days, political matters were far from his thoughts.

“I wasn’t a politician back then; these accomplishments come from divine work,” he stated, portraying his former self as an introverted and composed individual who was primarily dedicated to academic pursuits.

However, everything changed when he joined Egerton University. It was there, Salasya revealed, that his first steps toward leadership began, not through elections, but through compassion.

He shared that during his initial year, he motivated students to gather clothing they had grown out of, which was subsequently delivered to homeless individuals living on the streets.

Each Saturday, the team prepared dishes, engaged in conversations, and provided encouragement to those less fortunate at Moi Gardens in Nakuru.

Salasya mentioned that this project increased his sway over his contemporaries. Over time, his acquaintances urged him to explore opportunities in student governance, starting as a lighthearted endeavor aimed at enhancing support for charitable activities.

He remembered how his classmates urged him to compete for an elected position once he went back home after finishing college.

What prompted Salasya to run for the Mumias East MP position?

In 2012, during his third year at Egerton University, Salasya experienced a more profound political awareness. He had invited the then Member of Parliament for Mumias East to discuss themes of leadership and community service.

“I had limited knowledge of my hometown since I seldom ventured there,” he confessed. “However, upon returning, I listened to the MP addressing issues in a manner entirely contrary to his statements at the university. This disparity made me realize that politicians often mislead their constituents.”

Feeling both let down and motivated, Salasya identified a void in leadership within Mumias East and courageously chose to contest for a position.

“I was merely a young boy,” he stated. “I finished last with 254 votes. It made me cry as I realized the voters had betrayed me. After healing and picking myself back up, I began anew.”

What advice did Salasya offer to young, up-and-coming leaders?

The young legislator warned that securing electoral victories involves more than just an active social media profile; it necessitates substantial grassroots efforts.

“I would contribute KSh 200 at funerals. I requested others to acknowledge me regardless of my impoverished state,” he shared. “Since I lacked funds for banners, I inscribed my name on all available natural elements like rocks, sisal plants, and anything else I encountered.”

Salasya spoke openly about the difficulties faced by younger legislators in Parliament. He expressed concern over systematic intimidation by their more experienced counterparts and accused the Speaker of showing favoritism towards veteran members of the legislature.

He mourned, 'We aren’t afforded an opportunity to voice our opinions in Parliament. Whenever we try to contribute by raising our hands, we get overlooked, and they favor those who are close to them.'

Even with these difficulties, Salasya showed unwavering confidence in his presentation, confidently asserting that he was among the top-performing Members of Parliament in Kenya.

Gazing forward, he suggested his aspirations extended further than just Mumias East.

Everyone admires me, and I am an actor," he claimed. "While some view me as a clown, I aim to show them that I am among the most autonomous minds in Parliament. I stand out as one of the leaders genuinely connected with the Kenyan people.

Which Kenyan Member of Parliament has shown the most impressive performance?

As reported earlier by .co.ke According to a survey conducted by Infotrak, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino was named Kenya’s top-performing Member of Parliament, achieving a 72% approval rating.

He was closely trailed by Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, who secured 71% of the votes.

Salasya ranked fifth with 61% of the votes, earning recognition for his work in advocacy, developmental initiatives, and lawmaking.

However, Salasya contested the election outcomes, claiming he was unfairly marginalized. Even though he expressed reservations about the polls, he committed himself to learning from both Babu and Nyoro to enhance his capabilities and aim for the top position as the nation’s leading Member of Parliament.