Renowned radio presenter Maina Kageni has found himself at the centre of a heated debate, accused of exhibiting tribal double standards in his commentary on political matters. Critics argue that during former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s tenure, Kageni, who hosts a popular morning show on Classic FM, focused primarily on light-hearted and often controversial topics like relationships and sex, avoiding any criticism of Kenyatta’s administration. However, with President William Ruto, a Kalenjin, now in power, Kageni has been vocal in his critiques, leading to accusations of bias.
The allegations suggest that Kageni’s silence during Kenyatta’s presidency was due to their shared Kikuyu heritage. Critics claim that Kageni refrained from addressing the economic challenges and governance issues under Kenyatta, choosing instead to steer clear of political discussions. This perceived reluctance to criticize Kenyatta has been contrasted with his current stance, where he is seen as actively castigating Ruto’s administration.
The accusations of tribal double standards have sparked a broader conversation about the role of media personalities in shaping public opinion and holding leaders accountable. Some argue that Kageni’s shift in focus reflects a broader trend among Kikuyu commentators and activists, who have become more vocal in their criticisms now that a non-Kikuyu president is in office. This has led to claims of hypocrisy and selective outrage, with critics pointing out the inconsistency in their approach to political commentary.
Supporters of Kageni, however, argue that his current critiques are a reflection of the changing political landscape and the need to address pressing issues under the new administration. They contend that Kageni, like any other media personality, has the right to evolve his content and focus on topics that resonate with his audience. They also emphasize that holding leaders accountable is a crucial aspect of journalism, regardless of tribal affiliations.
By Kenyans