Kenyan Politician's Furious Accusations Against Artists Spark National Debate

Rigathi Gachagua's Outburst: Kenyan Politician Declares War on Artists in Heated Church Speech Kangema, Murang'a County, Kenya – In a surprising turn of events, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua delivered a fiery speech during a church service in Kangema on May 25, 2025. His target? Popular local artists whom he accused of betraying their community. The speech, captured on video, quickly went viral. Gachagua's main point was the artists' alleged acceptance of money from an unnamed wealthy individual, referred to only as "Mr. Moneybags." He stated, "Wasanii na waimbaji wa mlima mmetusaliti kwa kuenda kwa Mr. Moneybags, ombeni msamaha ama tuwache kusikiza nyimbo zenu na kuwaita kuimbia watu kwa maklabu!" (Mountain artists, you betrayed us by going to Mr. Moneybags; ask for forgiveness or we will stop listening to your songs and stop calling you to sing for people in clubs!). The video shows Gachagua visibly agitated, using strong language and emphatic gestures. His words have sparked debate about the influence of money in the arts and the responsibilities of artists to their communities. While the identity of "Mr. Moneybags" remains undisclosed, Gachagua's public condemnation has created a significant stir in the Kenyan entertainment scene. The incident highlights the complex intersection of politics, culture, and public opinion in Kenya. The incident underscores the ongoing tensions between political figures and cultural influencers in Kenya, and raises questions about the ethical considerations artists face when navigating financial opportunities.