On January 10, 2026, veteran Kenyan politician Eugene Wamalwa reflected on his early life, revealing the profound impact of losing his father at a young age.

Eugene Wamalwa, while speaking during a burial in Machakos, revealed that he lost his father when he was only six years old and was subsequently raised by his late brother, Kijana Wamalwa.

He noted that his brother stepped into the paternal role, guiding and supporting him through his early years and shaping his upbringing in the absence of their father.

Wamalwa said, “My father died when I was only 6 years old. Actually, I was raised by my late brother Kijana Wamalwa; he was like a father to us, so I never got the time to know my father nor to enjoy.”

Born on April 1, 1969, in Saboti, Trans Nzoia County, Eugene was just six when his father, Senator William Wamalwa, a prominent post-independence leader who served as a Member of Parliament and later as a senator, passed away in 1976. This loss shaped Eugene’s childhood and family dynamics in a politically influential household.

Brother steps into paternal role.

Following the death of their father, Eugene and his siblings were raised by his elder brother, Michael Kijana Wamalwa, who later became Kenya’s eighth Vice President under President Mwai Kibaki. Michael assumed the paternal role, providing guidance, emotional support, and ensuring that Eugene and his siblings continued their education.

Eugene has recalled that Michael prioritised the family’s well-being while extending support to the wider community, balancing mentorship with leadership responsibilities.

Growing up without his father, Eugene missed out on personal memories and everyday paternal guidance. However, he credits Michael’s dedication with instilling values of service, resilience, and public duty that would define his career. Michael’s role as a surrogate father offered stability and direction during a period of grief and family responsibility.

Political career shaped by early experiences

Eugene’s early experiences motivated him to pursue a career in law and politics. He earned a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Nairobi and was admitted to the bar in 1995.

He later represented Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni in a 2001 election petition. Following Michael’s death in August 2003, Eugene entered politics, contesting the Saboti parliamentary seat and eventually winning in 2007.

He has served as Minister for Justice, National Cohesion and Constitutional Affairs (2011); Cabinet Secretary for Water and Irrigation (2015); Devolution and ASALs (2018); and Defence (2021).

Today, Wamalwa leads the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), advocating for devolution, national unity, and reforms, continuing the legacy of both his father and his brother who raised him.