Arthur Kinyanjui Magugu, a former Githunguri MP and Finance Minister, was known as a maverick politician with several firsts to his name. He served in Parliament from 1969 to 1992, lost in the 1992 multi-party election, but reclaimed the seat in 2002 and served until 2007.
Magugu is remembered for four major actions: removing Kenyatta’s portraits from government offices, banning smoking in public, delaying the national budget speech, and serving an entire term on sick leave. His removal of Kenyatta’s portraits during Moi’s presidency was seen as an act of loyalty to the new president.
As Minister of Health after the 1979 elections, he forced cigarette companies to include warning labels and implemented a ban on public smoking. He personally enforced the law by riding in matatus with guards to ensure compliance.
In 1983, while serving as Finance Minister, Magugu delayed the national budget by a week, a first in Kenyan history. He dismissed the delay as a small matter needed for political survival.
After winning the 2002 election, Magugu only attended the swearing-in ceremony due to poor health. He missed all other House sessions and served his term on sick leave until his death in 2012 at age 78.
By Kenyans