Legacy of Hon. Nathan Munoko. Hon. Nathan Munoko is no more. His life and political career serve as a profound lesson for those who seek to profit from the pain, suffering, or death of others. Munoko’s rise and fall, entwined with Kenya’s tumultuous political history, underscore the perils of opportunism and the moral cost of aligning oneself with injustice.
The JM Kariuki Assassination: A Turning Point
The defining moment in Munoko’s political career came in 1975, following the assassination of Josiah Mwangi Kariuki (JM), a fearless critic of government corruption and repression. In the aftermath, Masinde Muliro, then Minister for Works, refused to vote against the adoption of a parliamentary report on JM’s assassination. His defiance was encapsulated in the powerful statement: “There is no collective responsibility in murder.”
This principled stand cost Muliro his ministerial position, and Munoko, a fellow Bukusu, was appointed to replace him. Munoko’s rise came at a cost—the political and moral stain of being seen as a beneficiary of a colleague’s principled stand against injustice. While he enjoyed the power and prestige of his new position, it was short-lived. Munoko served only one term in parliament and never returned to the political stage. His legacy, tainted by opportunism, became a cautionary tale.
A Man Haunted by the Past
Years later, the author of this narrative encountered Munoko on a Kenya Bus in Buruburu. The former minister, stripped of his former glory, was now an ordinary citizen. In an attempt to gain insight into his reflections on JM Kariuki’s assassination, the author asked, “Who do you think killed JM Kariuki?”
Munoko’s response was not immediate. His silence, as he stared into the distance, spoke volumes. After a long pause, he muttered, “Babandu bano bakali sana” (these people are so many)—a cryptic acknowledgment of the vast and shadowy forces at play. His reluctance to answer directly revealed the lingering trauma and fear he carried, a man burdened by his role in a dark chapter of Kenya’s history.
A Troubled Post-Political Life
Munoko’s fall from grace was complete by the mid-1980s when he served as the Executive Officer of KANU, the ruling party. At a public lecture at the National Youth Service (NYS) camp in Gilgil in 1985, he faced sharp criticism over the party’s practice of expelling politicians without providing them with alternatives. The author challenged Munoko, drawing parallels between KANU’s suppression of dissent and Milton Obote’s authoritarian regime in Uganda. The confrontation was met with cheers from the audience and embarrassment for Munoko, who left the camp in anger.
This episode revealed the profound disconnect between Munoko and the people he once served. His attempts to defend an unjust system only deepened his isolation, highlighting the long-term consequences of aligning with oppressive power structures.
The Cost of Opportunism
Munoko’s story is a stark reminder of the heavy price of opportunism. Those who ascend to power by exploiting the misfortunes of others often find their legacies marred by their choices. The fleeting rewards of power and privilege cannot erase the moral consequences of such actions.
The narrative draws parallels with figures like Hezekiah Oyugi and Oloo Aringo, who also rose through opportunistic means but faced ignominious ends. History has a way of catching up with those who disregard justice and fairness in their pursuit of personal gain.
A Lesson for Future Generations
The story of Nathan Munoko offers timeless lessons:
- Principles Over Opportunism: True leadership demands a commitment to justice, even at personal cost. Munoko’s career serves as a cautionary tale for those who prioritize ambition over principles.
- The Weight of Injustice: Aligning with injustice, whether through active participation or silent complicity, leaves a lasting scar on one’s legacy.
- The Power of History: Time has a way of unveiling the truth and holding individuals accountable for their actions.
Rest in Peace, Hon. Nathan Munoko
As Munoko is laid to rest, we are reminded that history is both judge and teacher. His life, marked by a single fateful decision, stands as a warning to those who seek to benefit from the suffering of others. While he may have lost his way, there is still room for reflection and forgiveness. Legacy of Hon. Nathan Munoko
May Nathan Munoko find the peace in death that eluded him in life. And may his story inspire others to choose integrity and justice over opportunism, ensuring that their legacies reflect the values they stand for.
