Samidoh ‘Wantam’ Chants Lands Him in Trouble with the National Police Service

Acclaimed Mugithi musician and police officer Samuel Muchoki, popularly known as Samidoh, is under scrutiny by the National Police Service (NPS) following a viral video of his recent live performance. 

On May 18, the National Police Service transferred Samidoh from his post at the Central Region Police Headquarters to the Administration Police’s Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) in Gilgil. The action follows the circulation of a video recorded on May 16 showing the musician performing at an entertainment venue in Nairobi. Sources within the police service indicate that the transfer is part of disciplinary measures taken against him for allegedly violating Service Standing Orders (SSO), which prohibit officers from engaging in political activities.

The controversy stems from a performance where the crowd chanted "Wantam," a phrase meaning "one term," a rallying cry against President William Ruto and popularised by impeached former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Samidoh's interaction with the crowd fueled speculation about his political alignment, raising concerns given his position as a law enforcement officer bound by strict conduct regulations.

The video, which rapidly gained traction online, shows Samidoh engaging with the audience during the performance. The NPS views the incident as a potential breach of regulations that demand political neutrality from its officers. While the transfer to the ASTU in Gilgil represents the initial disciplinary action, sources suggest that more severe penalties may be considered depending on the outcome of the ongoing investigation. These penalties could range from a formal warning to demotion or even dismissal from the police force.

The NPS has remained tight-lipped regarding the investigation. Deputy Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli, who oversees the Administration Police, has yet to respond to inquiries about the matter. Similarly, Inspector-General Douglas Kanja has not issued any official statement, leaving many questions unanswered and creating an atmosphere of uncertainty surrounding the case.

Samidoh himself has been circumspect in his public statements. When approached for comment, he indicated that he was not in a position to speak at the time, promising to address the issue later. 

The disciplinary action against Samidoh has elicited varied reactions from the Kenyan public. Some argue that he should have exercised greater caution due to his status as a police officer, while others view the move as politically motivated, infringing on his artistic expression.

Many of Samidoh’s supporters have encouraged him to resign from the police force and focus solely on his music career, suggesting that his success in the entertainment industry provides a viable alternative. His popularity as a Mugithi artist is undeniable, and his music enjoys widespread appeal across different demographics in Kenya.

Samidoh was among a group of musicians from the Mount Kenya region who met with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki at his Karen residence on May 23. The meeting, which included prominent artists such as Karangu Muraya, Ben Githae, and Jose Gatutura, was reportedly aimed at discussing government support for the creative industry.