Samidoh Transferred to Bandit-Prone Baringo After Ruto ‘Wantam’ Performance
Mugithi star and serving police officer Samidoh Muchoki has been swiftly reassigned. This is from the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) headquarters in Gilgil to the volatile region of Baringo County. A move widely interpreted as a disciplinary measure following the viral spread of his politically charged performance.
The transfer was executed by the National Police Service just days after a video of Samidoh’s live performance went viral. It has sparked debate. In the clip, audience members are heard chanting “Wantam” — a slang version of “one term,” now a popular slogan among critics of President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 elections.
Though the police have not officially stated the reason for the reassignment. The timing and the nature of the deployment to a bandit-prone area have led many to view it as a direct response to the political undertones of the performance.
Samidoh Issues with the Government
Speaking about the redeployment, Samidoh confirmed: “I was told I’m supposed to report to Baringo today. I’m reporting to Gilgil today for further deployment.” He, however, downplayed any connection between his music and the transfer. Adding, “Normally, police are transferred to serve anywhere within the borders of this country.”
Samidoh’s career has seen multiple shifts within the police service, starting with an initial posting in Nairobi under the Kenya Police Service. This is to move into the Administration Police and, more recently, to ASTU in Gilgil.
Interestingly, his transfer comes just a week after he was seen at the Karen residence of Deputy President Kithure Kindiki alongside other musicians a meeting. That fueled speculation about his standing within the government, though it offered no immediate clarity.
While the popular musician continues to maintain a composed public stance. Additionally, many believe his redeployment speaks volumes not only about discipline within the ranks. But also about how art, expression, and politics increasingly intersect in today’s Kenya.
