Peter Salasya’s ascent from humble beginnings to becoming the Member of Parliament for Mumias East is a testament to resilience and determination. Born in January 1989, Salasya was the second youngest in a family of seven. He began his education at Shanderema Primary School, completing his Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) in 2005, and proceeded to Lubinu High School in Kakamega County in 2006.
His academic journey led him to Egerton University in Nakuru County, where he pursued a Bachelor of Commerce degree. While at university, Salasya developed an interest in leadership, initially vying for the position of Director of Academics in his first year, though unsuccessfully. Undeterred, he ran for the vice-chairman position in his third year, demonstrating his growing commitment to public service.
After graduating in 2014, Salasya returned to Kakamega and took up work as a bicycle hawker, assisting a local venture in selling bicycles. His fortunes improved when a friend helped him secure a position at Diamond Trust Bank (DTB) as an operations officer and cashier. It was during his tenure at DTB that his political aspirations were rekindled.
In 2017, Salasya made his first attempt at national politics by contesting the Mumias East parliamentary seat. Despite finishing last among nine candidates with only 254 votes, he remained undeterred. Following this setback and the loss of his bank job, he returned to Kakamega and worked as a tutor at Sigalagala National Polytechnic, earning a modest salary of Sh13,000. He utilized these earnings to fund early campaign efforts.
Salasya’s advocacy against the collapse of Mumias Sugar Millers resonated with constituents, earning him admiration and support. Despite limited resources, his community rallied behind him, even constructing a mud house for him. Additionally, Eugene Wamalwa contributed Sh100,000 to support his candidacy under the DAP-K party. In 2022, Salasya’s perseverance paid off as he was elected as the Member of Parliament for Mumias East.
His dedication to public service has not gone unnoticed. A recent survey by research firm Infotrak ranked Salasya as the 5th best-performing MP in the country, with a score of 61 percent. His journey from hawking bicycles to the halls of Parliament serves as an inspiring narrative of determination and community support.
