Former Member of Parliament; veteran human-rights crusader and liberation activist.

Augustine Njeru Kathangu (popularly known as "Mtumishi") is a veteran Kenyan pro-democracy reformist, military veteran, and politician who served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Runyenjes Constituency between 1992 and 1997. He is widely recognized for his prominent role in Kenya's Second Liberation struggle for multi-party democracy.

Early Life and Career

Birth: He was born in 1950 in Kyeni, Embu District.

Education: He was educated by the Consolata Missionaries and later pursued further studies in Great Britain and Germany

Military Service: He is a veteran of the Kenya Air Force, having been commissioned as an officer during the administration of President Jomo Kenyatta.

Political and Community Leadership

Member of Parliament: Following his release from prison, he won the Runyenjes Constituency parliamentary seat in the 1992 general election, serving until 1997.

Diplomatic Engagements: In May 2002, Kathangu led a delegation to the Vatican, meeting with Pope John Paul II to discuss Kenya’s political transition, regional governance, and the need for peaceful elections.

Church and Social Work: He has remained heavily involved in civic and community leadership, serving as the programs director for the Family Life Counselling Association and managing literature for the Holy Family Basilica's Lectors Society. [1, 2]

Recognition

In recognition of his immense sacrifice and contribution to Kenya's democratic space, Augustine Njeru Kathangu was officially feted as a national hero on Mashujaa Day.