Achieng’ Oneko
Ramogi Achieng' Oneko (1914 – 9 June 2007) was a prominent Kenyan freedom fighter, nationalist, and statesman, best remembered as one of the legendary Kapenguria Six, the group of leaders detained by the British colonial government in 1952 for their role in the struggle for independence.
Oneko’s early life was marked by his involvement in community development and his passion for liberation. He pursued technical education and worked as a radio broadcaster and press liaison, where his communication skills connected him with nationalist leaders like Jomo Kenyatta.
In 1952, during the colonial crackdown on nationalist activities, Oneko was arrested alongside Jomo Kenyatta, Paul Ngei, Bildad Kaggia, Fred Kubai, and Kung’u Karumba, forming the famed Kapenguria Six. Although evidence of his direct involvement in the Mau Mau movement was limited, he was sentenced to long-term imprisonment for his political beliefs. He was released in 1961, emerging as a symbol of resistance and resilience.
After independence in 1963, Oneko became a Member of Parliament for Nakuru Town and served as Kenya’s first Minister for Information, Broadcasting, and Tourism under President Jomo Kenyatta. He later resigned from government in solidarity with Vice President Jaramogi Oginga Odinga due to ideological differences, joining opposition politics. As a member of the Kenya People’s Union (KPU), Oneko fought for greater political pluralism and economic equality, enduring harassment and detention for his stance against authoritarian rule.
In 1992, after the reintroduction of multiparty democracy, he returned to active politics and was elected MP for Rarieda under FORD-Kenya. His lifelong commitment to justice and democracy earned him respect as one of Kenya’s true patriots.
Oneko’s name remains synonymous with courage and sacrifice, symbolizing the spirit of Kenya’s independence struggle. His role as a member of the Kapenguria Six places him among the architects of Kenya’s freedom, celebrated for standing firm against colonial oppression and fighting for democratic governance.
Famous Quote
Don’t be fooled. We had no doubt that what we were doing was right. I knew that fighting for freedom was the right thing to do. We couldn’t let Africans down … Did we have any option?
— Achieng’ Oneko
