NAIROBI, KENYA – A heated political exchange is unfolding in Kenya’s Mt. Kenya region, as Dennis Itumbi, Head of Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy, has publicly rebuked former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over his call for a boycott of local musicians. The controversy stems from a recent meeting between Mt. Kenya artists and current Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.
Gachagua, speaking at an AIPCA church in Murang’a County on Sunday, reportedly urged Mt. Kenya residents to boycott musicians who met with Kindiki, branding them “traitors to the community” for allegedly being “told to come and lie to you that SHA is working, roads are being built, and the education sector is doing well.” He claimed this directive came after discussions with Mt. Kenya elders, and insisted the artists must apologize or face social media unfollows and exclusion from entertainment venues.
However, Itumbi wasted no time in condemning Gachagua’s stance, labeling his remarks as “reckless, desperate, and dishonest.” In a strongly worded statement, Itumbi asserted, “Kenyan musicians are not pawns in your bitter games. They are entrepreneurs, innovators, and cultural custodians whose talents are God-given—not-Gachagua-sanctioned.”
Itumbi challenged Gachagua’s perceived hypocrisy, recalling the former DP’s own past statement: “When people cannot speak, let them sing.” He then posed, “Now that the songs don’t flatter you, you reach for the mute button?”
Emphasizing that Gachagua “does not own their voices, choices or convictions,” Itumbi urged musicians to stand firm against such pressure. He also called on promoters, platforms, and event organizers to “not aid political blackmail” and to “Stand with the artist. Stand with freedom.”
This public spat highlights the intricate link between politics and the arts in Kenya, as well as the ongoing realignments within the Mt. Kenya political landscape.
