Celebrated Mugithi maestro and serving police officer Samidoh Muchoki has found himself at the center of a political storm after a video of his electrifying live performance — in which revellers chanted the now-famous “Wantam!” slogan — went viral, triggering disciplinary action from the National Police Service (NPS). Sources now confirm that Samidoh has not only been transferred from the Central Region Headquarters but is also facing further disciplinary proceedings at the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) in Gilgil.
The slogan “Wantam” — a streetwise contraction of “one term” — has become the signature battle cry of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s growing rebellion against President William Ruto. Gachagua and his DCP Party have weaponized the phrase as a rallying call to vote out President Ruto in 2027, accusing him of betrayal and economic mismanagement. The phrase has since evolved into a political anthem, and Samidoh’s musical performance — initially meant for entertainment — is now being viewed through a sharply political lens.
What began as a moment of fun during a Friday night Mugithi show escalated when a fan-recorded video showed Samidoh on stage strumming his guitar while the crowd chanted “Wantam?” in unison. The footage spread rapidly across social media platforms, causing unease within high-level police and government circles. A senior officer from the Administration Police told Channel 15 News that the video reached the desks of top commanders at Jogoo House, prompting an urgent internal meeting on Monday, May 18, where the matter was discussed and action taken.
“The issue was treated with the seriousness of a political offense,” the senior source disclosed on condition of anonymity. “Samidoh is a public servant governed by strict Service Standing Orders. Participating, even passively, in chants that carry strong political connotations is a breach. He has been moved to Gilgil’s ASTU unit pending further disciplinary measures.”
The police administration reportedly castigated Samidoh for “engaging in conduct unbecoming of a disciplined officer” and “violating apolitical conduct guidelines.” According to insiders, Samidoh’s continued entanglement with politically charged performances puts the integrity of the police service into question — especially at a time when political tensions are rising within the Kenya Kwanza government.
Sources say that while Samidoh has not yet made a public statement, he has been advised to lie low as internal investigations proceed. The officer, known for his soulful music and humble roots, has previously managed to keep his entertainment career and police duties separate — until now. Critics say the transfer is a veiled attempt to silence dissent and muzzle artistic freedom, especially when it aligns — even unintentionally — with anti-establishment narratives.
The fallout has also drawn in political voices, including digital strategist Dennis Itumbi, who took to social media to decry the move. “Kenyan musicians are not your choir. You do not own their voices, their choices, or their convictions,” Itumbi wrote.
Analysts warn that the NPS’s action against Samidoh may backfire, amplifying the “Wantam” slogan even further and fueling the narrative that Ruto’s administration is intolerant to dissent — even in art. For now, all eyes are on Gilgil, where the guitar maestro will report for duty — but with the rhythm of rebellion already echoing far beyond the stage.
