Wanna face the music? Comply with Gachagua’s call to boycott musicians – MCSK warns

The Deputy President held a meeting with leading musicians from the Mt Kenya region, which he said sought to find interventions on ‘exploitative cartels’ in the industry. 

In retaliation, Gachagua accused the musicians of betrayal, calling on the region to boycott them. 

“Those who went to Ruto to ask for forgiveness, if not, I'll order no one to listen to their music and no clubs will invite them to perform,” said Gachagua.

As the split continues to grow, the MCSK has warned that the declaration by Gachagua is a threat to the constitutional rights of the said musicians, who should enjoy the freedom of association. 

“We are deeply concerned by the unfortunate calls from senior political leaders urging a boycott of our members’ work, simply because they exercised their constitutional right to freedom of association by engaging in discussions on critical issues affecting the growth of the music industry”, stated MCSK CEO Ezekiel Mutua said in a statement on Monday.

Mutua warned that entertainment joints that comply with Gachagua’s order will face the whip of the MCSK. 

“Let it be clearly stated that MCSK will not tolerate any form of economic sabotage targeting our members. Any entertainment venue that complies with calls to discriminate against our artists will not be authorized to play music licensed by MCSK,” Mutua warned. 

The MCSK boss further noted that artists earn income through public performances, hence “introducing divisive political measures that threaten this livelihood would be tantamount to destroying the very foundation of their creative enterprise.”

The Society said it will monitor the situation to ensure artists are not discriminated based on political affiliations. 

Some of the popular musicians who met the DP last week included Samidoh Muchoki, Karangu Muraya, Ben Githae, Jose Gatutura, DJ Fatxo, Sammy Irungu, Martin Wajanet, and Ngaruiya Junior.

The musicians have also been meted with opposition from a section of fans who have vowed not to show up in their club performances, and taken immediate actions such as unfollowing them on social media and Video on Demand platforms. 

Following Gachagua’s threat, Kindiki accused his predecessor of advancing authoritarian tactics and engaging in economic sabotage.

"Some people have become arrogant, lecturing everyone—musicians, politicians. Who do they think they are?" Kindiki said. "You cannot dictate to citizens like that. If you come within shooting range, we will deal with you."