Duke Mainga Echate: Becoming the youngest CEC and why I resigned from Ruto's government

It was after the 2017 general election, where he had vied for the Bomachoge Borabu MP seat, but finished a distant fourth.

"I resigned from Kisii university Nairobi campus and went for the MP seat. Unfortunately I didn't make it, but somehow Governor Ongwae heard of me and called me to ask me to become a minister in his government," Mainga says.

He was appointed the CEC for Sports and Culture, a position that saw him become the youngest CEC in Kenya's county governments history.

During his tenure, he oversaw the construction of Gusii stadium and other facilities across the county, a position he held for four years before falling out with Governor Ongwae.

"Me and the then deputy governor came from the same region. So when the deputy governor had issues with the governor, I was collateral. The former governor was very temperamental sometimes, so one day he calls me and says I should not report to office," Mainga narrates.

He left the county government in 2021 and ventured into music during the covid period.

It was here that he further made a name for himself, releasing hit after another that endeared him to the Gusii people. His songs were so relatable that in a short period he topped the charts, hitting millions of views on Youtube and other streaming platforms.

"Music became a consolation for me after leaving the county. I released my frustrations through music, singing on social issues that many people could relate with," he adds.

In 2022, he once again went for the Bomachoge Borabu MP seat, this time coming third in the race. He vied under President William Ruto's UDA party.

"It was a lot of confusion for me. UDA was not very popular in Kisii in 2022, but Ruto was popular. With the wave of Simba Arati and Ongwae, ODM swept Kisii such that it was difficult for me to win," Echate says.

After Ruto assumed office, he appointed him chairman of the Commodities Fund, a position he held for three years. He resigned early 2026, blaming some of the leaders from Gusii region for his predicament.

"I did not fall out with the president. Some leaders from Gusii region became petty and started accusing me of being (Fred) Matiang'i's mole. They accused me of not being very active in UDA matters in the region," Echate further says.

Eyeing the Bomachoge Borabu seat for a third time, Echate has since joined Matiang'i's camp. He has hit the ground running, and he believes this is his time.

"This time round I strong believe the people of Bomachoge Borabu will pick me as their representative. I have what it takes to help my people," Echate exudes confidence.

He is facing incumbent Obadiah Barongo, who defeated him in 2022.

"The people have realised they made a mistake in 2022. They want to rectify that mistake by electing someone who has their best interests at heart. That person is me," he adds.

Nationally, Mainga believes Matiang'i stands a better chance to become president, but warns that the opposition must unite to remove Ruto from power.