On August 2, 2025, Mumias East MP Peter Kalerwa Salasya formally launched his debut memoir, From the Ashes I Soar, at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi. The event drew political allies, friends, and supporters, all gathered to celebrate the remarkable journey of one of Kenya’s youngest parliamentarians.
Salasya described his memoir as “a journey of resilience and triumph” a personal testament to rising above adversity. Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP‑K) leader Eugene Wamalwa praised his political growth, candidly calling him a political son and wishing him to continue ‘soaring’ in Kenya’s dynamic terrain.
The narrative delves deep into Salasya’s humble upbringing in Western Kenya living in a modest house lacking windows and even a bed, sleeping on the floor with no comfort or certainty.
Through candid reflections, he emphasizes that no background is too poor to produce greatness. The memoir speaks directly to youth with ambition, offering hope that any dream can rise from the ashes.
Beyond material hardship, the book chronicles the mental and emotional challenges Salasya faced growing up. Once mocked as a “madman” by political opponents and dismissively labeled due to his unorthodox path, he persisted driven by faith, hard work, and belief in his destiny.
A near-fatal car crash during the 2022 election campaign shifted Salasya’s life profoundly. Stranded in a forest at 3 AM, he cried out to Jesus and survived unscathed a moment that deeply strengthened his faith. Since then, he embraced daily prayers and spiritual focus as cornerstones of his life and leadership journey.
With KSh 500 in his pocket and no campaign funds, Salasya utilized social media to elevate his voice blogging, posting, and sharing his story until it resonated with many. His breakthrough victory in the 2022 Mumias East parliamentary race marked a turning point turning from bicycle hawker to national political figure.
Since then, his bold rhetoric and activism especially around Western Kenya’s political identity and youth empowerment have placed him at the centre of both praise and controversy. Salasya has launched the Western Youth Movement, galvanizing Gen Z across Luhya-speaking counties and challenging established party influence in the region
