Eugene Wamalwa puts Michael Kijana’s political journey on record in new book

A new book detailing the life and political career of former Vice-President Michael Kijana Wamalwa has been launched, 23 years after his death. The book, titled "My Country First," was released on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at Milimani Grounds in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County. It was launched by retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, who also wrote the foreword to the book.

The book chronicles Michael's journey from his early life to his time as Kenya's eighth Vice-President under President Mwai Kibaki in 2002. Michael's political career was marked by his commitment to national cohesion and putting Kenya first, as his brother Eugene Wamalwa, a DAP-Kenya leader, describes in the book. Despite serving as Vice-President for only about eight months, Michael's political legacy remains closely tied to the 2002 transition period when the National Rainbow Coalition (NARC) defeated KANU, ending the party's long hold on power.

The book also highlights the sacrifices Michael made in public service, which were not fully realized due to his untimely death in London on August 23, 2003. Eugene Wamalwa expressed gratitude to President Uhuru for writing the foreword and attending the book launch, emphasizing the importance of political cooperation as demonstrated by the 2002 political alliance.