He may be a latecomer into Nyanza politics but Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi Onungu is emerging as a new breed of politicians that is daring in the country's murky world of politics.
Coming from Siaya, the county of political legends including Senator James Orengo and NASA leader Raila Odinga, Atandi will have a lot to learn from them if he is to survive the harsh political climate that has claimed many political careers. But the Alego Usonga man is, however, about to overcome the treachery and establish himself as a formidable political operator.
For a man who doesn't shy away from speaking his mind no matter what, the former banker's brand of politics can be likened to that of former Gem MP Jakoyo Midiwo. And with the new kid on the block, Midiwo's absence is covered.
Those who have crossed the path of the vocal lawmaker have felt his wrath including Deputy President William Ruto whom he recently dismissed following his altercation with Raila over the referendum call.
Deported Lawyer Miguna Miguna also once found himself on the firing line when it was suggested that he was angling to succeed the former Prime Minister as the kingpin of Nyanza politics- the legislator saying that anyone with that thought should be stoned to death.
With Atandi on the ground, Raila is shielded from political punches.