In 2013, one man’s raw emotion became the face of a disputed election. Nickolas Owino Magina was filmed clutching a piece of paper, tearfully claiming he had proof of a rigged vote.
Thirteen years later, the man behind the "Evidence kwa Kalatas" meme is finally sharing his story.
Speaking with Citizen Digital’s Tony Wanambisi, Magina reflected on the video that has refused to retire. The clip was recorded during the heat of the 2013 presidential contest between Raila Odinga and Uhuru Kenyatta.
The Paper That Went Viral
Following the declaration of Uhuru Kenyatta as president, Magina was caught on camera in a state of deep distress. He insisted the official results did not match the reality on the ground.
"Evidence iko kwa karatasi," he famously shouted, pointing to his notes. Today, he explains that those papers contained his own tallying of results. He believed the data showed Raila Odinga had won in Nyanza, the Rift Valley, and Western Kenya.
"That video was me showing the country the truth. I cried until it was seen everywhere across the nation. The evidence in my paper showed that Raila had won in Coast, Nyanza and even Rift Valley and Western provinces,” he said.
Life Beyond the Meme
Behind the viral video is a story of significant personal hardship. Magina lost both his parents when he was very young. He describes his life as a constant struggle to survive, often "pushing" just to get by.
However, his fortunes changed through the help of a benefactor, Dr. Joshua Odongo Oron. Thanks to this support, Magina is now focusing on his education.
He completed his Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) last year. He is currently in school and expects to sit for his Form Four exams next year.
A Die-Hard Supporter
Magina’s loyalty to Raila Odinga has not wavered over the last decade. Despite years of fierce opposition, he is now adjusting to a new political reality. He expressed his support for Odinga’s decision to work with the current government under President William Ruto.
He believes this cooperation is necessary for the country to move forward. He specifically called on the government to implement "10 agendas" intended to help those who have suffered.
"We are happy to be in government now. I hope William Ruto will honour the words put forward by Raila Amolo Odinga."
A Message to the Leadership
Looking at the future of the opposition, Magina has a clear message for younger leaders. He urged figures such as James Orengo, Babu Owino, and Kalonzo Musyoka to remain united. He warned them against destroying their party through internal conflicts.
He remains convinced that replacing Odinga will be a nearly impossible task. In his view, the veteran politician possessed a unique vision that extended across Kenya and the entire African continent.
