Veteran broadcaster Fred Obachi Machoka has spoken after his 50th anniversary concert was overshadowed by dramatic incidents involving Congolese rhumba star Koffi Olomide and former nominated senator Gloria Orwoba.
File image of broadcaster Fred Obachi Machoka
The Machoka@50 Grand Concert, held at Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi on Saturday, October 10, celebrated Machoka’s five decades in broadcasting. Despite the controversies, the veteran presenter expressed gratitude to the fans, performers and organizers who made the event successful.
In a social media post after the event, Machoka disclosed that the organizing team had been worried about several challenges, including the possibility of Ebola concerns affecting attendance, managing the large crowd and the potential for rain. He thanked God for ensuring the event went ahead successfully and praised the musicians who entertained the audience.
Machoka particularly appreciated Koffi Olomide for delivering a two-hour performance that thrilled rhumba lovers. He also recognized other performers, including Mbilia Bel, Them Mushrooms and Les Wanyika. The broadcaster also thanked the event’s masters of ceremonies, including Jeff Koinange, Mwalimu Churchill and Patrick Igunza, for their contribution.
The celebration attracted attention after Machoka ordered security to remove his niece, Gloria Orwoba, from the stage when she chanted the opposition slogan “Wantam”, associated with calls for President William Ruto to serve only one term.
Another incident occurred when Koffi Olomide reportedly declined Machoka’s invitation to participate in a cake-cutting ceremony and walked off the stage.
Despite the unexpected moments, Machoka remained appreciative of the support he received, describing the concert as a memorable milestone in his broadcasting career. He also expressed hope that another edition could be held in the future.