Kenya’s political theatre just took a wild turn after former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua unleashed a searing attack on Mt Kenya musicians allegedly enlisted to market President William Ruto and Deputy President Kindiki ahead of the 2027 elections.
With barely veiled fury, Gachagua cautioned the artists to “eat the money but not surrender their souls,” a statement that has since triggered uproar across social media and intensified scrutiny on the growing intersection of entertainment and politics.
The uproar comes in the wake of a secretive meeting between several popular musicians and DP Kindiki, reportedly held at his Karen residence.
Details emerging online suggest the artists were approached to act as political influencers tasked with reshaping public perception and drumming up support in the vote-rich Mt Kenya region. With 2027 fast approaching, this strategy appears designed to counter waning support for the Kenya Kwanza administration.
The backlash has been swift and unforgiving. One user, Kiptum, challenged Gachagua’s moral authority, urging him to let the region make its own political choices without interference.
Mutinda piled on, stating that anyone associated with Gachagua is effectively disqualified from leading Kenya’s future. Others, like Elijah Chemwolo, ridiculed the notion that supporting local businesses equates to bribery, while Ngugi took a swipe at Gachagua’s tenure, accusing him of globe-trotting with no tangible results for local farmers.
Amoh Cheruiyot added a psychological jab, suggesting that unwavering Ruto supporters not directly benefiting from his administration might need a mental check-up. On the other hand, Musa Abdallah seemed to echo Gachagua’s sentiment but remained firm that no bribe would sway his political stance.
This latest twist has exposed the fragile trust between voters and public figures who cross into politics. With musicians now caught in the crossfire, Gachagua’s warning has not only fueled a meme frenzy online but also reignited debate over integrity, influence, and the true cost of political loyalty. The Mt Kenya political scene just got messier—and far more unpredictable.
By Kenyans