A storm is brewing in Kenya’s music industry after several popular Kikuyu artists came under intense fire for attending a meeting with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, sparking accusations of betrayal and political opportunism.
The meeting, held last Friday at Kindiki’s official residence in Karen, brought together over a dozen high-profile musicians from Central Kenya, both secular and gospel, aimed at discussing government support for the creative sector. Among those in attendance were Samidoh Muchoki, Jose Gatutura, Ben Githae, Karangu Muraya, DJ Fatxo, and gospel artist Sammy Irungu.
Deputy President Kindiki praised the artists’ contributions to the economy and culture, emphasizing the need for government policies that promote growth, fair compensation, and protection of intellectual property within the creative industry. “We discussed how, as a government, we can support the work of musicians and the industry at large,” he said, adding that artists had requested intervention against exploitative industry cartels.
However, the meeting quickly ignited a fierce backlash online, particularly among Central Kenya residents who view the current administration with increasing hostility. Many fans took to social media accusing the musicians of aligning with a government they believe has failed the people.
Mugithi artist Jose Gatutura attempted to defend his participation, stating on Facebook that the meeting was strictly about advancing the music industry. “We don’t rely on payslips. We have bills to pay, family to feed… music is like any other business,” he wrote. Gatutura maintained he remains politically neutral and urged fans to separate art from politics.
Yet, for many, the explanations rang hollow. “It’s either you are with the people or with the oppressive regime,” wrote one fan. Others urged artists to boycott political engagements altogether, arguing that public perception matters in an increasingly polarized climate.
Adding to the tension, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, while speaking in Murang’a on Sunday, accused the artists of receiving Ksh. 50,000 each to attend the meeting. He condemned the visit as a betrayal of the Kikuyu community and called on fans to boycott the musicians and entertainment venues that host them.
“They were given Ksh. 50,000 each to sit with those still frustrating us,” Gachagua claimed. “Let them apologise, or we will unfollow them.”
DP Kindiki responded strongly, rejecting the bribery allegations and accusing Gachagua of promoting political intolerance. “The little that we give is out of good-heartedness,” Kindiki said during an address in Kiambu. “Artists came seeking help to dismantle cartels exploiting their talent.”
Political leaders present at the Karen meeting included Thika MP Alice Ng’ang’a and other Central Kenya legislators, highlighting what appears to be a calculated government push to engage disenchanted regions through cultural influencers.
As the debate rages on, the incident underscores the growing strain between politics and public figures in Kenya, where even artistic affiliations are now scrutinized under a political lens.
Written By Rodney Mbua
