Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has told popular Mugithi artist Samuel Muchoki Ndirangu, better known as Samidoh, to stay away from political campaigns. The veteran politician addressed Kenyans living in America and made his feelings clear about musicians getting involved in government messaging. Gachagua warned that artists from the Mt Kenya region should focus on their traditional musical themes instead of promoting political agendas. He emphasized that musicians excel when they create songs about romance, relationships, and daily life experiences. The former deputy president cautioned against letting politicians manipulate artists into spreading propaganda during challenging times.
Gachagua praised Samidoh's musical abilities and acknowledged the cultural importance of Mt Kenya music throughout his remarks. He criticized recent attempts to pressure musicians into campaigning for government policies and projects. The politician stated that artists serve their communities best by providing entertainment and helping people relax through music. He questioned whether citizens need musicians to tell them about infrastructure development when they can observe these things themselves. Gachagua argued that music should not become a tool for covering up problems that ordinary people already experience firsthand.
The comments follow a recent meeting between current Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and several Mt Kenya artists including Samidoh at Harambee House. Kindiki described the gathering as a courtesy visit to recognize artists for promoting national values through their work. The deputy president highlighted the creative industry's economic potential and stressed the importance of regular discussions with artists. He emphasized exploring ways to strengthen the music industry through continued dialogue. Kindiki noted that the creative sector represents a profitable business opportunity for talented individuals.
Gachagua praised Samidoh's musical abilities and acknowledged the cultural importance of Mt Kenya music throughout his remarks. He criticized recent attempts to pressure musicians into campaigning for government policies and projects. The politician stated that artists serve their communities best by providing entertainment and helping people relax through music. He questioned whether citizens need musicians to tell them about infrastructure development when they can observe these things themselves. Gachagua argued that music should not become a tool for covering up problems that ordinary people already experience firsthand.
The comments follow a recent meeting between current Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and several Mt Kenya artists including Samidoh at Harambee House. Kindiki described the gathering as a courtesy visit to recognize artists for promoting national values through their work. The deputy president highlighted the creative industry's economic potential and stressed the importance of regular discussions with artists. He emphasized exploring ways to strengthen the music industry through continued dialogue. Kindiki noted that the creative sector represents a profitable business opportunity for talented individuals.
