Philes Ongori, the athlete (left), and her husband John Mochama (right), pictured in Canada. IMAGE | St. Catharines Standard.
In Summary:
- John Mochama and Philes Ongori recount their journey from Kenya to Canada after the 2022 General Election, highlighting threats and fears that led to their decision.
- Forced to leave their homeland due to safety concerns, the couple now resides in Canada, separated from their children, as they embark on rebuilding their lives.
In the aftermath of the 2022 General Election, John Mochama finds himself grappling with the profound repercussions that have upended his life. Married to Silver medalist Philes Ongori, Mochama recounts a harrowing tale of their flight from Kenya to Canada, driven by threats and danger.
Mochama, a teacher, had ventured into politics, contesting for the London Ward MCA seat in Nakuru County. However, his aspirations were met with menacing opposition.
In an interview with the St Catharines Standard, a Canadian media outlet, Mochama disclosed that threats targeted not only him but also his wife, who faced intimidation from thugs while training. These threats, he revealed, were explicit warnings against his political ambitions, escalating fears for their safety.
He recounted, “While my wife was training, she encountered thugs who threatened her life and cautioned her about my political aspirations. They explicitly warned her against my participation in future elections.”
Confronted with the stark reality of imminent peril, Mochama and Ongori made the difficult decision to flee their homeland. However, the gravity of their situation meant they couldn’t take their children with them, compelling them to entrust their care to relatives in Kenya.
Currently residing in a hotel in Niagara Falls, the couple grapples with the challenges of displacement while clinging to hopes of reuniting with their children in Canada.
Despite the adversity, they find solace in the hospitality extended by locals, offering them a semblance of support as they navigate this new chapter.
For Mochama, a former MCA aspirant and university professor in Kenya, Canada represents a fresh start, with aspirations to transition into a teaching role. Meanwhile, Ongori, still nurturing her athletic prowess, continues her journey of running competitions, recently triumphing in the annual Toronto Marathon.
Expressing her determination to pursue her passion, she envisions representing Canada on the international stage, driven by a relentless love for her craft.
Their poignant saga epitomizes the sacrifices made in pursuit of safety and opportunity, underscoring the resilience and fortitude of individuals forced to navigate the tumultuous aftermath of political turmoil.