Your Excellency We Listen to What You Say, Samidoh Pledges Allegiance To Gachagua During Seattle Performance

Popular Kikuyu musician makes bold declaration of loyalty to former Deputy President during diaspora event in the United States

In a moment that electrified the Kenyan diaspora community in Seattle, renowned Kikuyu musician Samuel Muchoki Ndirangu, popularly known as Samidoh, made a bold declaration of allegiance to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua during a musical performance that has since sparked conversations across Kenya’s political landscape.

Speaking in his native Kikuyu dialect before launching into his performance, Samidoh addressed Gachagua directly, stating: “Your Excellency, we usually listen to what you say and get targeted. But if that’s the case, then it’s the Seattle Declaration.”

The statement, delivered with characteristic humor that drew laughter from the audience, represented a significant moment of political positioning by one of Kenya’s most beloved musicians.

The comment appeared to acknowledge the political risks associated with supporting Gachagua while simultaneously affirming his continued loyalty to the former Deputy President.

The event, co-organized by Samidoh and media personality Muthoni wa Kirumba (Baby Tops), brought together members of the Kenyan diaspora for what was billed as an evening of music and political engagement.

The gathering took on added significance as it marked Gachagua’s first international trip since his removal from office in October 2024.

Following his declaration, Samidoh launched into a stirring performance of “Mwene Nyaga,” a popular Mau Mau-era song that carries deep historical and cultural significance for the Mt. Kenya community.

The audience responded enthusiastically, singing along and raising their arms in solidarity, with many capturing the moment on their phones – ensuring the performance would reach audiences far beyond the Seattle venue.

The choice of “Mwene Nyaga” was particularly symbolic, as the song represents themes of resistance and cultural identity that have resonated with the Mt. Kenya community for generations.

By performing this specific song immediately after his declaration of support for Gachagua, Samidoh appeared to be drawing parallels between historical struggles and contemporary political dynamics.

The evening took on additional political weight with the presence of People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua, who joined Gachagua as a guest of honor.

After his performance, Samidoh greeted both leaders, drawing cheers from the crowd and further cementing the political nature of the gathering.

During his address to the audience, Gachagua praised Samidoh’s musical talent and emphasized the cultural value of Mt. Kenya music.

However, he also issued a cautionary note about the role of artists in political discourse, warning against being drawn into government messaging campaigns.

“Our great son Samidoh is also here. We really love his music. The other day, they were trying to coerce these musicians to go and sing to them and lie to the people of Kenya,” Gachagua stated.

“And I told them that’s not your work. Your work is to sing for us so that we can sleep well. To entertain us when we are relaxing.”

This statement appeared to reference ongoing debates about the appropriate role of artists in political campaigns and government messaging, particularly in light of recent efforts by various political figures to enlist musicians in their causes.

The Seattle event represents a significant moment in Kenya’s political landscape, as it demonstrates the continued influence of diaspora communities in domestic politics and highlights the complex relationship between entertainment and political expression.

Samidoh’s public declaration of allegiance to Gachagua, despite acknowledged risks, signals the deep political divisions that continue to shape Kenya’s political discourse.

The choice of venue – Seattle, far from the immediate pressures of Kenyan politics – may have provided a space for more open political expression than might be possible at home.