Wanna Face the Music? MCSK Fires Back at Gachagua’s Boycott Call

The Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK) has condemned former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s call to boycott Mt Kenya musicians who recently visited the Deputy President, Kithure Kindiki’s residence last Friday.

Deputy President Kindiki held a meeting with leading musicians from the Mt Kenya region, which he said aimed to find interventions against ‘exploitative cartels’ within the music industry.

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

“Those who went to Ruto to ask for forgiveness—if they don’t retract—I’ll ensure no one listens to their music and no club invites them to perform,” Gachagua declared.

As tensions rise, MCSK has warned that Gachagua’s boycott call threatens the constitutional rights of the musicians, who should enjoy freedom of association without fear of reprisal.

“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,” said MCSK CEO Ezekiel Mutua in a statement on Monday.

Mutua further warned that entertainment venues complying with Gachagua’s order will face strict sanctions.

“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.

He emphasized that artists rely on public performances for income, and that “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 closely to ensure artists are not discriminated against based on political affiliations.

Among the musicians who met Deputy President Kindiki last week were Samidoh Muchoki, Karangu Muraya, Ben Githae, Jose Gatutura, DJ Fatxo, Sammy Irungu, Martin Wajanet, and Ngaruiya Junior.

Following Gachagua’s threat, some fans have vowed to boycott these artists by avoiding their club performances and unfollowing them on social media and streaming platforms.

In response to Gachagua’s boycott call, Deputy President 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.”

The escalating tensions highlight a deepening political divide that risks disrupting the unity and livelihoods of musicians in the Mt Kenya region. As both sides hold their ground, the industry and fans alike await how the conflict will unfold.

Article By Suzy Nyongesa