Gachagua Warns Samidoh Against Political Entanglements
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has issued a firm warning to popular Mugithi musician Samuel Muchoki, widely known as Samidoh, advising him to steer clear of political involvement and remain focused on his music career. Speaking during a diaspora engagement in Seattle, Gachagua cautioned that political forces were attempting to use musicians from the Mt. Kenya region to sway public opinion in favor of government policies, particularly the contentious Social Health Authority (SHA) initiative.
Gachagua’s remarks come amid growing scrutiny over a recent gathering at the home of Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, where Samidoh and fellow musicians Karangu Muraya, Ben Githae, and Jose Gatutura reportedly met with political leaders. The artists were allegedly asked to use their platforms and music to campaign in support of the SHA scheme. This move was met with public backlash, with many accusing the musicians of being co-opted into government propaganda.
Addressing the matter, Gachagua said, “Samidoh, don’t fall into that trap. Stick to what you do best—entertaining Kenyans. Don’t allow yourself to be used by politicians to mislead the public.” He emphasized that the Kenyan public is politically aware and not easily swayed by celebrity endorsements.
Gachagua, who has rebranded under the Democracy for Citizenship Party (DCP), criticized attempts by the ruling Kenya Kwanza administration to use popular musicians as tools of political manipulation. He went further to urge Mt. Kenya residents to boycott artists who allow themselves to be politicized, claiming they had betrayed the region’s trust by siding with what he called “oppressors.”
His message to artists was clear: “Your role is to sing, entertain, and bring joy—not to influence political decisions or sell unpopular government policies.”
Meanwhile, Samidoh’s own troubles have intensified. In June, he was suspended from the police service and had his salary withheld after allegedly failing to report to his new post at the Anti-Stock Theft Unit in Gilgil. His continued stay in the U.S. on a music tour has raised questions about his compliance with official police duties and added fuel to the public discourse surrounding his role as both an entertainer and a law enforcement officer.
The developments underscore a larger conversation in Kenya about the growing involvement of celebrities in political campaigns and whether such actions compromise their artistic independence. Gachagua’s remarks highlight a rift within the political elite over how to engage public figures in governance matters without eroding public trust.