Kenyan comedian Eric Omondi has been left heartbroken after the highly anticipated Valentine’s concert, which he was set to host alongside musician Willy Paul, was abruptly canceled. The event, which was scheduled to take place on Friday, February 14, at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), was stopped at the last minute by authorities. Sharing the disappointing news on his Instagram page, Omondi expressed his frustration and sadness, stating that months of planning and significant financial investment had gone to waste.
According to him, the police arrived at the venue and informed them that they had received “orders from above” to halt the event, without providing a clear explanation. The comedian claimed that the cancellation was not about security concerns or the event itself but rather targeted at him personally. He linked the decision to his outspoken criticism of President William Ruto’s leadership, suggesting that his political activism might have played a role in the authorities’ actions. Omondi further revealed that over KSh 21 million had been spent on organizing the concert, which was meant to provide Nairobians with an unforgettable Valentine’s Day experience. He lamented the loss, particularly for Willy Paul, who had allegedly invested his life savings into the event.
“This is the Kenya we live in. Willy Paul invested everything in this. Over KSh 21 million down the drain! Will the youth ever rise? One day, things will change,” Omondi wrote. The sudden cancellation has sparked conversations among fans and industry players, with many questioning the government’s role in the entertainment sector and the challenges artists face in Kenya.
By Nairobi