Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called on Mt Kenya residents to boycott musicians who recently visited Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, accusing them of betraying the community.
Speaking in Murang’a on Sunday, May 25, Gachagua said community elders were angered by the artists’ visit and demanded they issue public apologies or face social and professional repercussions.
Some of the artists who visited Kindiki at his Karen residence on March 23 include Samidoh Muchoki, Karangu Muraya, Ben Githae, Jose Gatutura, DJ Fatxo, Sammy Irungu, Martin Wajanet, and Ngaruiya Junior.
According to Gachagua, the artists allegedly received Ksh50,000 each for the visit. He urged the public to unfollow them on social media and avoid entertainment joints that continue to book them for performances.
“The elders agreed that we should stop listening to their songs. Entertainment venues should stop inviting them, and if they do, people should walk out. We must unfollow those who won’t apologise,” he stated.
In response, DP Kindiki defended the meeting, saying it focused on addressing exploitation in the music industry and eliminating cartels that hinder musicians’ growth. He also criticized leaders who use musicians for political propaganda through monetary influence.
“Musicians are seeking government support to protect their careers and remove exploitative cartels. Those misusing them for praise songs and divisive content for token payments are understandably upset,” Kindiki said on May 24
