MP Yusuf Hassan: A Resilient Force in Kamukunji and Nairobi Politics
MP Yusuf Hassan has served Kamukunji for 15 years, blending diplomacy, activism, and politics while recently joining Rigathi Gachagua’s Democracy for Citizens Party.
By John Mtongoi Newsroom
August 25, 2026
2 min read
Yusuf Hassan, the Member of Parliament for Kamukunji, has been a prominent figure in Nairobi’s political scene for over 15 years. Known for his steady presence amid the city’s often volatile politics, Hassan recently shifted allegiance from Jubilee to the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Born in Nairobi in 1953, Hassan pursued higher education in London, earning degrees in humanities, public administration, and international relations from respected institutions including the University of Middlesex, University of London, and Tufts University’s Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy.
Professional and Political Journey
- Started as a producer at Kenya Broadcasting Corporation in 1974.
- Worked as a reporter for Kuwait’s Arab Times and later as a producer for BBC External Service in London.
- Co-founded and served as Senior Editor for Africa Events magazine.
- Led the Ukenya opposition group in the UK during Kenya’s Moi era, facing government reprisals including passport revocation and family arrests.
- Joined the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in 1994, holding various diplomatic roles worldwide.
- Entered elective politics in 2011, winning Kamukunji’s parliamentary seat on a Party of National Unity ticket.
Political Stance and Community Engagement
Hassan is regarded as a politician deeply connected to his constituents. He emphasizes the electorate’s primacy over party lines or leadership pressures, advocating for legislators to represent the people’s interests even when laws are controversial.
His commitment to Kamukunji is evident through initiatives such as holiday tutorial classes for students from informal settlements, supporting academic improvement and community engagement.
Challenges and Achievements
- Survived a grenade attack in 2012 linked to his peace-building efforts.
- Re-elected multiple times under different party banners, reflecting broad voter support.
- Served on key parliamentary committees including Defence and Foreign Relations, and Budget and Appropriations.
Yusuf Hassan’s career reflects a blend of diplomacy, activism, and grassroots politics, positioning him as a significant player in Nairobi’s evolving power dynamics.
