DNK International By Our Correspondent,Narok
Few Kenyan politicians have transformed personal adversity into public service as remarkably as David Ole Sankok.
A medical doctor by training, disability rights advocate, former fiery student leader and now a Member of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), Sankok has built a reputation as one of Kenya’s most outspoken politicians.
Born in Narok County, Sankok acquired a physical disability at a young age following complications from a medical injection, an experience that inspired his determination to study medicine and better understand healthcare.
He attended Ole Sankale Primary School before joining Kericho High School for his secondary education.
Sankok later enrolled at the University of Nairobi, where he pursued a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB).
During his studies, he also undertook a Diploma in Medical Research at the University of Bergen in Norway.
While at the University of Nairobi, Sankok rose to national prominence through student politics.
In 2 000, he was elected President of the Students’ Organisation of Nairobi University (SONU), becoming the first medical student, the first Maasai and the first person living with disability to hold the influential office.
His tenure was marked by fierce opposition to the introduction of parallel degree programmes, which he argued would commercialise higher education and compromise academic standards.
His activism brought him into conflict with the government of the day, leading to arrests, suspension from the university and eventually a temporary relocation to Norway before he later returned to complete his medical studies.
Beyond student leadership, Sankok worked in business before venturing fully into public service.
He served as Director of Osim Country Lodge, chaired the National Council for Persons with Disabilities between 2014 and 2017 and sat on the Board of the National Government Affirmative Action Fund.
His leadership in disability advocacy made him one of Kenya’s most recognisable campaigners for the rights of persons living with disabilities.
His entry into mainstream politics was largely influenced by his years of advocacy for persons with disabilities and his interactions with national political leaders during his days as a student activist.
He has publicly acknowledged receiving encouragement from senior political figures over the years, including former President Daniel arap Moi during his SONU campaigns, while his activism also brought him into contact with opposition leaders such as the late President Mwai Kibaki.
In 2017, Sankok was nominated to the National Assembly to represent persons with disabilities, where he served in the Labour and Social Welfare Committee and the Committee on Appointments.
During his parliamentary tenure, he consistently championed disability inclusion, accessible infrastructure, education opportunities, employment and protection of the rights of persons with disabilities.
He frequently reminded Parliament that he spoke on behalf of millions of Kenyans living with disabilities and advocated for their inclusion in national development.
Following the 2022 General Election, Sankok was elected to the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) on the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket, representing Kenya and continuing to champion disability rights at the regional level.
In Arusha, Tanzania, where EALA sits, he has participated in legislative work aimed at strengthening East African integration while ensuring disability issues remain part of the regional agenda.
Although he remains associated with UDA, political observers have occasionally speculated that Sankok could shift political allegiance if he feels that the interests of persons with disabilities are no longer adequately prioritised or if the country’s political realignments ahead of the 2027 General Election reshape alliances.
However, as of now, he has not formally announced any intention to leave the party.
Sankok is equally famous for his colourful and humorous remarks, many of which go viral on social media.
One of his most memorable recent statements that DNK-International captured came during a funeral in Nyeri, where he jokingly remarked that he would never wish for a miracle cure for his disability because he enjoys privileges available to persons with disabilities, including tax exemptions on imported vehicles.
The remarks generated laughter but also reignited debate on disability benefits in Kenya.
He has also made headlines for his sharp political commentary, often defending the Kenya Kwanza administration while criticising opposition leaders.
His fearless style of debate and willingness to inject humour into serious political discussions have made him one of the country’s most recognisable legislators.
Away from politics, Sankok is married.
David Ole Sankok’s journey,from a young Maasai boy overcoming disability, to a medical doctor, fearless student leader, disability rights champion, Member of Parliament and now regional legislator,remains one of resilience, courage and determination.
Whether admired for his outspoken nature or criticised for his controversial remarks, he has undoubtedly left a lasting mark on Kenya’s politics and the campaign for the inclusion and empowerment of persons living with disabilities.
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🗓️ [DNK-International@August 3,2026]
