The 4 Brothers Who Rose from Campus Politics to National Leadership

Few Kenyan families can boast a political legacy as prominent and enduring as that of the Kajwang brothers. From student leadership halls to the national political arena, the late Otieno Kajwang, TJ Kajwang, Moses Kajwang, and Peter Kajwang have each made a lasting mark, shaping public discourse, influencing legislation, and upholding a tradition of bold, unapologetic leadership.

Nairobi Leo traces the journey of the four siblings whose surname has become synonymous with influence and activism, particularly within Kenya’s legislative corridors.  

Otieno Kajwang

The late Gerald Otieno Kajwang charted a fearless path from student activism to national politics. In 1979, he served as Secretary-General of the University of Nairobi Students’ Union (SONU), a role that placed him at the centre of fiery political agitation. His activism during this period led to state pressure, forcing him into exile in Uganda. 

While in Uganda, he pursued a law degree at Makerere University before returning home to join active politics. In 1998, he was elected Member of Parliament (MP) for Mbita, marking the start of a dynamic political career.

Kajwang later served as Minister for Immigration and Registration of Persons in the grand coalition government. In 2013, he was elected Senator for Homa Bay County. Known for his rousing speeches and deep connection with ordinary citizens, he popularised the slogan “Bado Mapambano”, a chant that became emblematic of political resistance and resilience.

A gifted orator and unflinching advocate, Kajwang remained a passionate voice in Parliament and beyond until his untimely death in 2014. His legacy as a charismatic and principled leader continues to resonate in Kenyan politics.

TJ Kajwang

Tom Joseph “TJ” Kajwang emerged as a political force during Kenya’s democratic awakening in the early 1990s. He served as the transitional chairperson of SONU in 1992, at a time when student movements were instrumental in demanding greater political freedoms.

In 2013, he was elected MP for Ruaraka, a seat he has held since, maintaining strong grassroots support.

TJ is known for his fiery contributions in Parliament and his visibility in high-stakes political rallies. He gained national attention in 2018 for taking part in the symbolic swearing-in of Raila Odinga as the “people’s president”; a bold move that stirred wide political debate.

Affiliated with the ODM Party, TJ remains active in legislative affairs, consistently pushing for reform and accountability.

Moses Kajwang 

Moses Kajwang’s public leadership began at Moi University, where he served as a student representative in the university senate. He entered the political scene in 2015 following the passing of his brother Otieno, winning the Homa Bay Senate seat in a by-election. 

Since then, Moses has cemented his place as a key figure in the Senate. As Chair of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), he leads critical oversight on how counties spend public resources. Under his watch, the committee has exposed various instances of financial irregularities, reinforcing the Senate’s role in holding governors accountable.

His focus on transparency, governance, and public finance continues to shape conversations on devolution and service delivery in Kenya.

Peter Kajwang

The most reserved of the Kajwang brothers, Peter Mwamba Kajwang has nonetheless carved out his own space in Kenyan politics. While studying in India, he represented Kenyan students, a sign of his early inclination toward leadership.

Today, he serves as the Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Kaptembwo Ward in Nakuru County, where he is known for grassroots engagement and community-focused initiatives.

Peter has set his sights on national office and has announced his candidacy for the Nakuru Town West parliamentary seat in the 2027 general election, aiming to extend the Kajwang legacy to a new constituency and chapter of leadership.