Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features for digital and print media.

Roots Party leader George Wajackoyah has added another prestigious title to his name after graduating with a PhD in Criminal Justice from Walden University, USA.

The ceremony took place on Saturday, July 12, in Orlando, Florida, marking a significant academic milestone for the 2027 presidential aspirant.

Speaking exclusively with , Wajackoyah expressed immense pride and gratitude for his achievement, describing the moment as one of deep honour.

"I feel highly honoured at this time and moment," he said.

This marks yet another academic milestone for the scholar-politician, who holds at least 15 degrees across various disciplines.

The politician, known for his pursuit of the legalisation of bhang in Kenya, previously studied policing and criminal investigation at the Kenya Police Training College in Kiganjo before venturing into law and policy studies abroad.

His academic credentials include degrees from the University of Wolverhampton, SOAS (University of London), University of Warwick, University of Westminster, University of Baltimore, and the University of Nairobi, among others.

Notably, his PhD thesis in Law and Public Policy was validated and published by the US Library of Congress—a rare recognition.

“This validation means that Congressional lawmakers can now refer to it as a source of law when making immigration laws,” Wajackoyah stated.

“Kenya has gained and made a mark in the congressional research arena,” he added.

He dedicated the accomplishment to his research assistants, Kelvin Ouma and Hellen Musyoka, his family, and academic mentors.

Asked what inspired his pursuit of a second doctorate amid a demanding political career, Wajackoyah responded:

“I was inspired by grace. I wanted to fill the gap in Section 287(g) of the US Immigration Law and explore whether it aligns with the rationalisation of racial profiling and deportation.”

Wajackoyah also spoke about the impact he hopes to make with his advanced legal knowledge, saying he aims 'to reinvent retrogressive and abusive colonial statutes that impede humanity.'

He emphasised that education, especially at the highest levels, should empower the current generation with awareness and accountable leadership.

A full professor with a highly decorated CV, Wajackoyah continues to blend academia and politics.

In the 2022 General Election, Wajackoyah captured national attention with the launch of a bold 10-point manifesto.

At the heart of his campaign was a promise to tackle Kenya’s mounting public debt and soaring unemployment through unconventional but income-generating initiatives.

Central to his agenda was the regulation and commercialisation of mar*juana for industrial and medicinal use.

The politician argued that legalising and exporting the crop could provide a significant economic boost and reduce reliance on foreign debt.

Additionally, he controversially proposed the export of hyena testicles—reportedly valued for their medicinal use in China—as a potential revenue stream, claiming the venture could generate even more income than cann*bis.

Though widely criticised for what many saw as a populist platform, Wajackoyah’s campaign resonated with a section of Kenyans who admired his resilience and unconventional rise.

His supporters viewed him as a symbol of hope—proof that one can overcome adversity and still aspire to lead.

Born and raised in rural western Kenya, Wajackoyah experienced hardship early in life. After his parents separated, he ended up homeless on the streets of Nairobi.

His life took a turn when he was rescued by worshippers at the Hare Krishna temple, who were feeding the homeless.

He eventually lived at the temple and became a Hare Krishna priest, a period he credits with reshaping his worldview.

His life journey—from a street child to a presidential contender, full professor, and holder of multiple academic degrees—continues to inspire many across the country.

To young Kenyans who see him as a role model, Wajackoyah encouraged them to pursue education and reject harmful ideologies through research and innovation.

“Study and say no to destructive views through research and innovation," he advised.

Source: TUKO.co.ke