It is not common that a renowned artist in Rwanda explores opportunities beyond to the extent that they end up carving a niche into politics. However, comedian Samson Mucyo alias Sam Zuby, decided to defy the odds as he open doors politics.

Known for his quick wit and infectious humor in his sensational duo known as Zuby Comedy, Mucyo has spent years entertaining audiences and winning numerous awards. But now, he has his sights set on a different stage – a seat in parliament–where he aims to represent the youth in the upcoming July elections.

While many thought that he was joking, just like rapper Riderman, when they learned that he was going to run for a seat in parliament, the comedian stood to his word until he submitted his candidature to the National Electoral Commission (NEC) on Thursday May 23.

He’s now making headlines in the Rwandan showbiz world whose eyes are now set how he will fare in elections.

ALSO READ: Elections: Comedian, 26, eyes seat in parliament

Early beginnings and comedy career

Born in Ruhuha Sector, Bugesera District in the Eastern Province, Mucyo is the second in a family of six, three brothers and three sisters.

He began his comedy career at a tender age, performing in school talent shows at Rango Primary School.

He continued performing sketches while pursuing secondary education at Lycée de la Sainte Trinité APED, Ruhuha. His ability to connect with audiences through humor earned him a dedicated following and several prestigious comedy awards even when he was still an ‘underground.’

During his first competition, organized by Plan International Rwanda, focusing on child abuse in the family, Mucyo won a speaker, a microphone, and sound system. Additionally, he competed in the Ombudsman Awards, securing third place at the national level, among other accolades.

In 2017, he finished high school and enrolled in the Christian University of Rwanda to pursue journalism. However, the university was permanently closed in 2020 due to alleged administrative challenges that compromised the quality of education, prompting him to move to Catholic Institute of Kabgayi (ICK) where completed his bachelor’s studies in 2023.

The ambitious actor is current pursuing a master’s degree in two different universities: a Master’s in Development Studies at Kigali Independent University (ULK) and a Master’s in International Relations and Ethics at Mount Kigali University (MKU).

As he grew his comedy career, Mucyo slowly transitioned from small gigs to headlining major comedy shows, especially after he met his colleague, Seth Nshizirungu. The two formed a duo dubbed ‘Zuby Comedy’ and quickly joined the comedy scene in 2019. They have since gained built a big fan base as indicated on their YouTube, Instagram and Tik Tok accounts where they share their comedy videos.

Over the years, the duo has hosted numerous shows together, bringing joy and laughter to homes across the country. Notable events include ‘Iwacu Comedy Shows’ and the Kigali International Comedy Festival in 2019. They were also featured in many other shows and, more importantly, have produced a series of visual skits on YouTube.

ALSO READ: Rwandan comedians to watch this season

The leap to politics

Despite building a name for himself in comedy, Mucyo felt a growing urge to make a difference beyond the stage. Inspired by the challenges faced by the youth in his community, he decided to use his platform to advocate for change. His decision to run for a seat in parliament is driven by a deep commitment to addressing such challenges.

"Youth represent more than 65 percent of the country’s population. That is a significant portion of the population and it is where the strength lies. I believe working together with them can bring about some changes. I have a project specifically aimed at tackling unemployment, although it’s too early to reveal details about it,” the 26-year-old told Weekender.

Right man for a seat?

Mucyo had the plan to run for election to be the voice of the youth ever since he graduated from high school, in 2017, but he did not believe in himself "until this moment.”

He isn’t sure yet whether his candidacy will be accepted considering that it lacks a health certificate but he still believes the elections body won’t snub him.

The comedy is wholeheartedly looking for a seat and use the platform to put what he has in store into actions and his partner Seth Nshizirungu, also known as Seth Seka, has no doubt that his colleague can do it.

Zuby Comedy came to life after Mucyo met Seth in 2017. The two were at the time trying to make a name in the comedy scene. They since became friends, not just because they shared career ambitions but because of Mucyo’s personality and his natural ability to communicate with people.

"He loved political affairs so much and seemed very knowledgeable about it. He knows how to communicate, especially within our team. He’s great at communication, and that talent is closely related to leadership,” he said.

Nshizirungu noted that leadership means communication. "If you can engage people to listen to you, it’s a big talent. I encourage everyone to vote for him, there is no doubt we will have a good leader representing youth since it’s his talent,” he added.