Renowned Kikuyu musician Ben Githae has issued an apology to Kenyans, especially ‘Gen Z’, for visiting State House, Nairobi.
Speaking on a local radio station on Thursday, June 19, Githae said he has faced criticism and threats for the past three weeks since his visit.
“I want to apologize to all Kenyans, especially Gen Z. I have surrendered, and I don't want to be 'greeted' like you greeted me three weeks ago. Please forgive me if I have wronged you," he said.
In early May, Githae went to State House along with other Kikuyu musicians such as Karangu Muraya and Samidoh.
They met with President William Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki to discuss how the government can support the music industry.
However, the visit sparked intense public backlash, with the musicians accused of engaging in political public relations for personal gain.
They were seen praising the government and its initiatives, actions that, to many, felt like a betrayal of struggling Kenyans.
Muraya faced additional criticism after posting in support of the Social Health Authority (SHA), saying it had helped him settle his brother’s hospital bill. The statement further fuelled public anger.
On June 18, Muraya came under fire again after revealing that the body of his friend had been detained for over a month due to an outstanding hospital bill of Ksh 270,000.
He explained that the original bill at Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) stood at Ksh 700,000. SHA had covered Ksh 300,000, while family and friends managed to raise a further Ksh 100,000.
“I am feeling so shameful that the body of my friend Sam from Gatanga has been lying in the morgue for the past one month because of the hospital bill of Ksh 270,000,” Muraya's post reads.
His plea triggered fresh online criticism, with many questioning why SHA had not cleared the full amount, particularly in light of his recent ties with the government.
