By Ongaga Ongaga
When the drums rolled at Masosa, West Mugirango MP Stephen Mogaka did what few leaders would — he kicked off his protocol and joined the dance.
Clad in a bright royal blue kaftan, Mogaka dropped low, knees bent, hands swinging, perfectly in sync with the young traditional dancers adorned in feathered headgear.
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The crowd erupted. Children in blue uniforms cheered from the sidelines as cameras rolled.
It is Mogaka’s signature. Whether it is kids, youth, or elders, the legislator easily blends into any entertainment crew, turning formal functions into memorable moments.
Behind him, another elder attempted to catch up, but the spotlight was already taken.
The MP’s infectious smile and effortless moves showed a leader at home with his people — not just speaking to them, but dancing with them.
Beyond the cheers, such a dance carries deep value. When a leader like Hon. Stephen Mogaka joins traditional dancers, he validates and preserves culture.
To the children watching, it says their heritage is not backward — it is worthy of a Member of Parliament.
It builds pride and keeps indigenous dance, language and identity alive in an era of TikTok and foreign trends.
Further, it breaks the wall between leadership and the people. A dance creates trust faster than a speech.
It tells the community, especially the youth that their MP is approachable, humble and present.
That emotional connection boosts civic participation, inspires young people to engage in community activities, and turns a political function into a shared human moment that people remember long after the speeches fade.
In a region where politics is often stiff and distant, Mogaka’s dance showed that leadership can be joyful, humble, and human.
And for the pupils of Masosa, it was a day they will never forget — the day their MP became one of them.
Editor’s note: These pictures were obtained from MP Stephen Mogaka’s Facebook page
