Nyeri, Kenya — A political storm is brewing in the heart of Mt Kenya. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged residents of the region to boycott musicians who visited Deputy President Kithure Kindiki last week.
The artists had met Kindiki at his home in what the Deputy President described as a sit-down to discuss the challenges facing the music industry. He said the session focused on finding solutions to “cartels” that allegedly exploit local talent.
“The creative sector is worth billions. These conversations help us build policies that protect artists and their rights,” Kindiki told reporters on Friday.
Musicians present at the meeting also praised the Social Health Insurance Fund, calling it a step forward for ordinary Kenyans, including those in the arts.
But Gachagua was not impressed.
Speaking at a local rally, he accused the musicians of betraying the Mt Kenya community by aligning themselves with political rivals. He did not hold back.
“Those who went to beg Ruto for forgiveness—let them be warned. I’ll tell people to stop listening to their songs. No clubs should invite them,” he declared in Kikuyu, drawing loud cheers and murmurs alike.
He went further, singling out one artist—without naming them—whom he claimed had accused him of blocking their political ambitions.
“One of them claimed I stopped him from running for MP. A man who dropped out in Class Two? And now he wants to be an MP? Someone who doesn’t even speak proper English?” said Gachagua, mocking the artist’s qualifications.
The remarks have split opinions.
Some residents and artists say Gachagua has every right to feel betrayed. Others believe the former Deputy President is stifling free expression and misusing his influence.
Veteran music producer James “JayMo” Mwangi warned against politicising the industry.
“Music should unite, not divide. These artists went to speak on issues that matter to all of us—piracy, healthcare, fair pay. That’s not betrayal,” he said in an interview.
Local musicians have yet to respond publicly, but several told this reporter off the record they were concerned about backlash from fans and club promoters in central Kenya.
The wider political backdrop cannot be ignored. Tensions have been high between Gachagua and the Ruto administration, especially after Gachagua was sidelined during recent party reshuffles. His comments reflect the growing divide in Mt Kenya politics ahead of the 2027 general election.
Observers say the clash over the musicians may be just the beginning.
“This is less about music and more about control,” said political analyst Caroline Wairimu. “Gachagua is drawing lines. He wants to show who’s still king in Mt Kenya.”
As the war of words heats up, one thing is clear: the region’s musicians are caught in the middle of a fight much bigger than their songs.
