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By Bob Anyula
Good Morning Kenya News
Kangemi Central Ward — one of the five unique wards nestled within Nairobi’s cosmopolitan Westlands Constituency — is no stranger to political shakeups. Over the years, this bustling urban zone has developed a reputation for fiercely embracing a one-term-per-MCA rhythm, rewarding fresh leadership while discarding the old guard with each electoral cycle.
But as the 2027 General Elections begin to cast their long political shadows, a new name is reverberating through the alleys, churches, youth groups, and local barazas of Kangemi Central — Chris Kaku Ongara.
The Tale of a Ward in Perpetual Transition
To understand the magnitude of what Chris Kaku is attempting to achieve, one must grasp the political heartbeat of Kangemi Central. This is a ward that has consistently aligned itself with the ODM wave, often acting as a litmus test for loyalty to the Orange party.
In 2007, it was Hon. Dancan Angode — closely allied with Fred Gumo and Raila Odinga — who carried the day. However, his attempt at re-election under Musalia Mudavadi’s UDF in 2013 saw him fall to the relatively unknown Hon. Peter Isuha.
Isuha’s reign was similarly short-lived. He was unseated by Paul Mahamba, another ODM flagbearer. But Mahamba too couldn’t withstand the tidal forces of Kangemi’s “one-term” syndrome and was succeeded by Hon. Hamisi Maleya, fondly known as Combato for his military background. Combato, the current MCA, now watches as new contenders like Kaku begin to stir the political pot ahead of 2027.
Enter Chris Kaku Ongara: A Son of Kangemi with a Vision
Bold. Passionate. Grounded. These are just some of the words residents use to describe Christopher Kaku Ongara, or simply Kaku as he’s affectionately known in Kangemi. Born and raised in the very heart of the ward, Kaku embodies the true spirit of the community — its struggles, its resilience, and its hope.
“Although my roots are in Western Kenya, Vihiga County to be precise, Kangemi is part and parcel of my whole being,” says Kaku. “I have watched this area transform from dusty footpaths to semi-paved roads. I have memories here that are too deep to ignore — and it’s those memories that drive me to serve.”
With unmistakable resolve, Kaku declares: “My plane has taken off, and my destination is clear — the Nairobi City County Assembly.”
And his agenda? Sharp and relevant. Water, sanitation, security, and most notably, youth empowerment. For Kaku, true security isn’t just about patrols or police posts — it’s about solving the root cause of crime: unemployment and hopelessness among the youth.
“We must channel our youth’s energy into productive ventures. As MCA, I will lobby for training programs, start-up support, and partnerships that turn idle hands into builders of this community.”
Ground Game: Winning Hearts, One Baraza at a Time
Unlike fly-by-night politicians who descend only during campaign season, Kaku has been steadily building bridges and trust within Kangemi Central. From engaging church groups and supporting women’s initiatives to sponsoring local community events, his footprint is hard to miss.
At a recent community forum, the Kasisi of the ADC Church offered a glowing endorsement:
“Kaku is a leader whose future we constantly petition God to brighten. He’s a friend to the church, always supporting our projects. His door is always open, and his heart is with the people. We pray 2027 will shine bright for him.”
This kind of organic support is not bought — it’s earned through years of consistency, humility, and service.
2027: A Defining Moment for Kangemi Central
As the winds of political change begin to sweep through the ward again, Chris Kaku Ongara stands out not just as another candidate, but as a native son returning to water the tree that once shaded him.
He represents a fresh yet familiar face. A man who knows the alleyways of Kangemi as well as he knows the aspirations of its people. A leader who blends youthful energy with a mature understanding of governance and community dynamics.
If the past is anything to go by, Kangemi Central rarely gives second chances. But perhaps in 2027, it might give Kaku his first — and the ward, a real chance at transformation.
Chris Kaku Ongara is a name you’ll be hearing a lot more as the 2027 race gathers steam. Whether he breaks the one-term curse or not, one thing is clear — the orchestra has begun, and Kaku is ready to conduct.
Story by Bob Anyula
For Good Morning Kenya News
