Samidoh performs for Gachagua, Karua in US

Renowned Kikuyu musician Samuel Muchoki Ndirangu, popularly known as Samidoh, gave a memorable performance for former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua during a lively diaspora event in Seattle, United States.

The event, organised by Samidoh alongside media personality Muthoni wa Kirumba, also known as Baby Tops, brought together members of the Kenyan diaspora for an evening of music and political engagement.

Muthoni, who emceed the occasion, interacted warmly with the audience before ushering in Samidoh with cheers and applause.

Speaking in the Kikuyu dialect, Samidoh welcomed the leaders and expressed appreciation for Gachagua’s presence.

“Your Excellency, we usually listen to what you say and get targeted. But if that’s the case, then it’s the Seattle Declaration,” he said in a light moment, sparking laughter before launching into a performance of the popular Mau Mau-era song Mwene Nyaga.

The audience enthusiastically joined in, singing and raising their arms, with many capturing the moment on their phones.

After his performance, Samidoh greeted Karua and Gachagua, drawing cheers from the crowd.

Speaking during an engagement, Gachagua praised Samidoh’s musical talent and the cultural value of Mt Kenya music, but cautioned that it was not the work of artists to campaign for government policies or projects.

He warned them against being drawn into political messaging, especially during a period when the country faces pressing governance and economic challenges.

“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,” Gachagua said.

The ex-DP left Kenya on Wednesday night for the United States, describing his visit as aimed at engaging with Kenyans in the diaspora and other international stakeholders.

The trip marks Gachagua’s first travel abroad since his removal from office in October 2024.