The allure of political power has captivated many Kenyan celebrities, with several making the leap from entertainment to public service. While some have found success, others have faced electoral setbacks.
Media personalities leading the charge
Former investigative journalist Mohammed Ali, known for his fearless reporting on ‘Jicho Pevu,’ successfully transitioned to politics. After a failed attempt at an ODM nomination, he clinched the Nyali parliamentary seat as an independent candidate in 2017 and retained it in 2022 under the UDA party.
Radio and TV personality Felix ‘Jalang’o’ Odiwuor also made a successful political debut, winning the Lang’ata parliamentary seat in 2022 under the ODM party. Unlike some of his peers, Jalang’o has expressed a desire to balance his political career with his entertainment industry roots.
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Musicians and entertainers join the fray
The political scene has attracted a couple of Kenyan celebrities; who will now compete for political seats.
TikTok sensation Mummie Francie has expressed interest in vying for the Woman Representative position in the 2027 elections.
Mummie expressed her aspiration to vie for the seat of Woman Representative in the National Assembly.
“I want to be a Woman Representative because I have much to share as a leader,” she said.
Meanwhile, singer Kevin ‘Bahati’ Kioko is eyeing a gubernatorial seat in the same year after a failed parliamentary bid in 2022.
In a series of online rants, Bahati complained about corruption that led to him missing out on the political seat. He further took a social media break to contemplate on the loss. But his ambitions stand strong as he has shown resilience and readiness to give it another shot in 2027.
Comedian Eric Omondi also hinted at a possible political future, stating his willingness to run for office if the electorate expresses interest in his leadership.
He is eyeing a political seat in Langata, where his fellow artist Jalang’o is leading as an MP.
On the other hand, jester Nasra Yusuf also has plans to change North Eastern Province, where she claims there are corrupt leaders. She called them out during the finance bill voting; where most of the leaders in the province voted ‘yes’. Nasra claimed that the North Eastern leaders were not sympathizing with the residents in those areas as they voted yes. For the latter reason, she claimed she might join the political race in 2027 to bundle out such leaders.
Digital content creator Kennedy Kabugi popularly known as Kabugi on also declared his interest in joining national politics while in an interview with Oga Obinna. He however, explained that he is yet to decide which seat to go for. In the interview, Kabugi insisted that he must be on the ballot in 2027.
“2027 I will be on the ballot watu wa Sijasettle bado (I haven’t decided yet on which seat) but I must be on the ballot,’ he stated.
The political arena: A new stage
While the entertainment industry offers a platform for influencing public opinion, the political arena presents a different set of challenges and opportunities. Success in politics requires a diverse skill set, including policy understanding, strategic thinking, and effective communication.
As more celebrities consider political careers, it remains to be seen how their star power will translate into electoral success and governance.