Paul Ngei

Paul Joseph Ngei was a fiery and fearless Kenyan freedom fighter, nationalist, and post-independence political leader. He is best remembered as one of the Kapenguria Six, the group of heroes detained by the British colonial government in 1952 for allegedly leading the Mau Mau movement. His charisma, resilience, and boldness made him a key figure in Kenya’s road to independence.

Ngei became actively involved in the Kenya African Union (KAU) and used his journalism training to write and speak against colonial injustices. His boldness and activism caught the attention of the British authorities. In 1952, during the state of emergency, Ngei was arrested and tried alongside Jomo Kenyatta, Achieng’ Oneko, Fred Kubai, Bildad Kaggia, and Kung’u Karumba in what became known as the Kapenguria Trial. The group was accused of managing the Mau Mau uprising and sentenced to long prison terms.

After his release in the early 1960s, Paul Ngei became a founding member of the Kenya African National Union (KANU) and was elected Member of Parliament for Kangundo in 1963. He was appointed to various ministerial positions in Jomo Kenyatta’s government, including Minister for Agriculture, Cooperatives, and Information.

Despite several controversies and political missteps, including allegations of corruption and electoral irregularities, Ngei remained a significant player in Kenya’s early politics. He was fiercely loyal to Kenyatta and was one of the few ministers who retained cabinet positions consistently throughout Kenyatta’s presidency. Ngei’s populist style and fiery speeches made him a favorite among many grassroots supporters.

Famous Quote

If fighting for my land and rights is a crime, then I am proud to be guilt

— Paul Ngei