Where Are They Now?: 7 Celebs Who Lost After Targeting Political Positions In 2022 General Election

• This article has explored the post-election journeys of 7 well-known figures who ventured into politics in 2022
• See where they are now, from Bahati's comeback to music to Bonnie Musambi's position in government
• Some celebrities like Jaguar and Njogu Wa Njoroge shifted into new government roles, and they have adjusted to them

The 2022 general election in Kenya saw many celebrities throwing their hats in the ring to try their luck in the mucky waters of politics, but not all emerged victorious.

Here, we take a closer look at some of the celebrities who contested various political seats in the last election and ultimately faced defeat.

1. MC Jessy

Jasper Muthomi, better known as MC Jessy, made a name for himself as a comedian on the popular Churchill Show.

His transition from entertaining audiences to seeking political office was met with curiosity and interest.

MC Jessy vied for the Imenti South Member of Parliament (MP) seat, hoping to bring about change in his constituency.

Unfortunately, his political journey hit a roadblock as he lost the seat to United Democratic Alliance's candidate Mwiti Kathaara.

Despite the setback, MC Jessy has maintained a low profile since the election, occasionally appearing at state events, possibly due to his close association with President William Ruto.

2. Mwanaisha Chidzuga

Seasoned media personality Mwanaisha Chidzuga joined politics with a bid for the Matuga Parliamentary seat, running on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket.

Her attempt to transition from the media industry to the political arena was unsuccessful.

Chidzuga returned to her journalistic roots and now works as a journalist at Cape Media-owned Radio 47.

3. Bonnie Musambi

Former KBC news anchor Bonnie Musambi's foray into the political landscape took an unexpected turn in the 2022 elections when he vied for the Kitui Central Parliamentary seat but faced defeat.

On Tuesday, March 21, a significant shift occurred in Musambi's career as he was appointed by President William Ruto as the Director of Coordination at State House, operating under the office of the Spokesperson.

Taking on Twitter, he wrote:

“Wow! Just wow! My immeasurable gratitude to God and you Mr President, for my appointment as Director of Coordination, State House. I promise my full dedication and loyalty to you and all Kenyans."

4. Njogu Wa Njoroge

Former Kameme FM presenter Njogu Wa Njoroge's venture into the political arena faced a setback after losing the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) nominations for the Njoro parliamentary seat.

However, his career took a significant turn in February when he was appointed as the Chairperson of the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) by Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba.

The appointment, outlined in a Gazette Notice dated February 20, positioned Njogu at the helm of a seven-member board for three years, commencing from February 24, 2023.

5. Jaguar

Charles Njagua Kanyi, widely known as Jaguar, experienced a shift in his political journey as he lost the Starehe parliamentary seat as an independent candidate.

Despite the setback, Ruto appointed Jaguar to the position of Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) in the Ministry of Youth Affairs.

Jaguar did not hide his joy after he was sworn in and vowed to serve Kenyans diligently.

"I wish to once again thank H.E President William Ruto for the trust and confidence accorded to me in appointing me as the Chief Administrative Secretary in the Ministry of Youth Affairs, the Arts and Sports. I am honoured and shall endeavour to serve with diligence and integrity," Jaguar said.

6. Jamal Gaddafi

Former KTN News anchor Jamal Gaddafi left his media role just months before the general elections to pursue a political career and vied for the Malindi parliamentary seat.

However, Gaddafi later withdrew from the race, leaving his supporters curious about his next steps.

As he has not returned to the newsroom, speculation abounds regarding his future endeavours.

7. Bahati

Singer Bahati ventured into politics in 2022, seeking the Mathare MP seat as a Jubilee Party candidate.

Despite his efforts, the musician faced defeat as ODM's Anthony Oluoch secured the victory.

Following his political journey, Bahati returned to his musical career, again captivating audiences with his melodic talents and content creation.

Bahati defects to UDA

On Wednesday, April 12, Bahati defected from Jubilee party to UDA.

UDA secretary general Cleophas Malala announced the singer's move, noting that Bahati's interest would be protected.

Bahati thanked the UDA secretary general and his wife for accompanying him, noting that she was making sure he was in check with his emotions.