Jaguar, also known as Charles Kanyi, is a well-known musician who gained popularity with his hit song “Kigeugeu” during the 2013 and 2017 general elections. He was elected as the Starehe MP in 2017 on a Jubilee ticket after winning the hearts of young voters with his music. Jaguar’s childhood was challenging, as his single mother passed away when he was only 11 years old. To pay for his school fees, he had to work odd jobs such as cleaning matatus. He even worked as a matatu tout and shared his difficult upbringing with others.
Jaguar pursued his music career in 2004 and released his first two singles “Utaweza Kweli” and “Furaha.” He attempted to increase his earnings by performing in the US, but was deported. However, he eventually convinced US embassy officials to allow him back, and he made a breakthrough by earning his first million as a sweeper in Maryland state. With his newfound wealth, Jaguar returned to Kenya and ventured into the transport business, buying a car and working as a cab driver. He eventually expanded his business by purchasing three more vehicles.
In 2015, Jaguar was appointed by President Uhuru Kenyatta to serve as a director of the National Campaign against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), a position he held until he entered politics in 2017. He recently joined Deputy President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party after thanking President Kenyatta for the NACADA job. Jaguar was officially welcomed to the UDA party during a rally in Nakuru County.
