A Political Bioagraphy of Elijah Wasike Mwangale: 1939-1992

Abstract

The project set out to construct a biography of Elijah Wasike Mwangale. It was guided by three objectives; To examine Elijah Mwangale‟s early life, education and social cultural experience which helped shape his career (1939 – 1966); To examine Elijah Mwangale‟s role and contribution in public service (1966 – 1978); To examine Elijah Mwangale‟s role as a cabinet minister; To examine Elijah Mwangale‟s role and contributions in KANU (1976- 1993). The study made use of both secondary and primary sources. Primary information from the Kenya National Archive and Kenya‟s Parlianment, was gathered and used. Interviews were also conducted in Bungoma, Nairobi, and Trans-Nzoia, which yealded very important information. Secondary sources included a review of books, journals, articles and magazines. All the information from both the primary and secondary sources was pieced together to construct the biography of Elijah Mwangale. The research established that various occurance and experiences in Elijah Mwangale‟s earfly life left life-long imprints in his minds that helped guide and shape his political life.The research also demonstrated that as a member of parlianment, Ellijah Mwangale established himself as a great debator. The issues he tackled included education, health, trade unionism and the state of economy. He rose to the national limelight when he chaired the J.M Kariuki murder Probe Committee which delivered a damning report to President Kenyatta. During the reign of president Moi, Elijah Mwangale was, for the first time, appointed to the cabinet. As a cabinet minister he served in the Ministry of Lobour, Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Ministry of Agriculture. Mwangale replaced Fredrick Khaoya as chairman of KANU Bungoma Branch in 1976. In that capacity, he did a lot to strengthen the party at the grassroots and at the branch level. At the beginning, he guided the branch to peace and tranquility. However with time, he made many enemies who ganged up against him to make Bungoma Branch a troubled branch.