The Digital Content Creators Association of Kenya (DCCAK) has strongly criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for urging a boycott of Mt Kenya artists who met with his successor, Kithure Kindiki. The association condemned Gachagua’s remarks as regressive and an attack on constitutional freedoms.
In a statement issued by DCCAK Chairman Bob Ndolo, the group accused Gachagua of attempting to silence artists and misuse cultural influence for political purposes. Ndolo called it “profoundly unfortunate” that a former high-ranking official would threaten the livelihoods of artists at a time when Kenya is striving to protect creative professionals from exploitation.
“Artistic freedom is protected under Articles 33 and 40 of our Constitution and is not subject to political manipulation,” Ndolo stated. He urged artists to continue speaking boldly, using their platforms to address issues such as the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), the Housing levy, and the Hustler Fund, among others.
In a sharp rebuke to Gachagua, Ndolo said, “Kenyan artists are not your subjects. Their talent comes from God, not your approval. They do not need your permission to create or to speak.”
This comes after Gachagua, speaking at a church event in Murang’a, accused certain Mt Kenya musicians of betraying the community by attending a meeting hosted by DP Kindiki in Karen. Gachagua claimed the artists were being used to spread false narratives about government performance and called for their public apology. He urged fans to boycott their music and social media platforms if they failed to comply.
However, DCCAK has firmly rejected this stance, insisting that no one, including political leaders, has the right to control or censor Kenya’s creative voices. The association emphasized that creativity and expression must remain free from political interference.
