Many Kenyans remember the late Paul Ngei as a legislator who represented the people of Kangundo in parliament from the years 1969 to 1990.
He also served the Kenyan government in various capacities both in the Kenyatta government and in the government of former president Daniel Arap Moi. What many young Kenyans do not know is that Paul Ngei was also at the fore front during the fight for independence.
1. Physical fight
Paul Ngei was arrested together with Mzee Jomo Kenyatta and many others in October 1952 after a declaration of a state of emergency. According to www.wikipedia.com, Paul Ngei challenged a colonial jailer to a physical fight when the jailer tried beating up Mzee Kenyatta. This bold move made Kenyatta to like him.
2. African People’s Party
Paul Ngei together with Mzee Jomo Kenyatta and four others who were detained formed the popular Kapenguria six. They spent a total of 9 years in jail. Upon release, Paul Ngei formed the African People’s Party shortly before independence. After independence, he vied for a parliamentary seat in 1969 and won.
3. Makerere University
History books say Paul Ngei attended DEB Kangundo Primary School and later Alliance High School. After clearing high school, he joined the army in the King’s African Rifles for four years. Ngei then joined the famous Makerere University in Uganda to study journalism.
4. Statue
A National Holiday, Mashujaa Day, is held every year on the 20th of October to remember and celebrate the Kapenguria 6. In October 20th, 2016, President Uhuru Kenyatta unveiled a statue of Paul Ngei which stands erect at the Makutano Junction in Machakos County..
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