TUTAM: The New Tune from Mount Kenya

Lately, something subtle yet unmistakable has been happening in Mount Kenya’s music scene. Artists who once spoke honestly for their communities are now singing a different tune—a carefully crafted one. 

At the heart of this shift is a campaign called TUTAM, a slogan pushing support for President William Ruto’s second term. It’s not written into any law, but it’s loud enough to be heard in every verse.

The strategy is simple, but the way it’s being carried out is anything but. People close to several musicians reveal a pattern: invitations to “unity breakfasts,” private meetings with government officials, and gentle but firm nudges to fall in line. It’s not outright force, but it’s far from entirely voluntary.

Samidoh: From Ballads to Balancing Acts

Take Samidoh, the Mugithi star who’s found himself right in the middle of this controversy. Known for his captivating performances and occasional political remarks, he surprised many when he attended a breakfast meeting with Interior CS Kithure Kindiki and other musicians from the region.

One insider tweeted, “Samidoh has been told to publicly declare ‘Tutam’ on camera. We agreed to eat together, but once they left, we went back to saying ‘Wan Tam.’”

The contradictions haven’t escaped notice. Just days before the meeting, Samidoh posted mysterious messages online hinting at fear, resistance, and even being silenced.

A tweet said it plainly: “Remember when Samidoh sang ‘WANTAM’ a few days ago? The government sent unmarked cars to his gate.” Since then, Samidoh has kept quiet—and his silence says more than any song.

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  From ‘WANTAM’ to ‘TUTAM’: Samidoh’s Mugithi as Kenya’s New Rally Stage 

Mount Kenya’s Musical Machinery

Behind the upbeat melodies and spotlights is a well-orchestrated plan to turn music into a political megaphone. Government insiders suggest that the administration views Mount Kenya’s musicians as key players in shaping public opinion, especially in a region known for shifting political loyalties. 

Artists like Ben Githae and Waithaka wa Jane have been asked to “align,” and alignment here feels less like choice and more like expectation.

It’s a familiar script: paint a picture of unity, reward those who cooperate, and isolate the dissenters.

A social media user put it this way: “Mount Kenya musicians say they don’t want to be left behind... Samidoh was there even after posting controversial things on social media.” This hints at a clear strategy unfolding behind the scenes.

Not Everyone’s Singing Along

Among fans and observers, skepticism is growing. Many see this campaign as more than just about unity; it’s about managing appearances ahead of the 2027 elections. Musicians are expected to spread the message—“Tutam,” meaning “We will choose him again”—from homes to clubs to villages. But behind closed doors, some resist.

One tweet summed up the frustration: “Even your landlord has applied for Boma Yangu. But you, soldier of struggle, are still waiting for ‘real change.’ It’s passed you by.” This captures a wider weariness with government-driven messaging.

Others have been blunt: “Since 2023, I’ve been saying Samidoh is not to be trusted—just like any other cop.” The implication is clear: political pressure is forcing some artists to switch sides.

Music as Message, Silence as Survival

What’s unfolding in Mount Kenya isn’t unique. Using cultural figures as unofficial spokespeople is nothing new. But the scale and coordination are catching more attention now. Artists who once spoke out against injustice are instead offering polite applause.

Whether out of fear, exhaustion, or strategic calculation, many have decided to go along with it. And with election season already looming, the stage is set.

A viral tweet by Tarbei Junior captures it well: “Critics said ‘this is just PR.’ But the houses are real, and the keys are in people’s hands. Mabati And Me is becoming a past I don’t miss.”

Still, the question lingers: If even the music is being scripted, who’s really holding the microphone?