Popular Mugithi artist Jose Gatutura has spoken out following backlash from fans over his recent meeting with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.
Gatutura was among more than a dozen artists from the Mt. Kenya region who met Kindiki at his Karen office to discuss matters related to development, the creative industry, and regional politics.
The meeting drew criticism from fans who accused the artists of aligning with a government that is rapidly losing favor in the region, especially following the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, a native of Mt. Kenya.
The artists, including Gatutura, faced an outpouring of insults online, prompting him to issue a statement addressing the controversy.
“About the trending topic on our visit to Karen, I’ve seen the negative talk going around. To my fans – we’ve come a long way together. You’ve supported me throughout my journey and watched me grow, and for that, I’m always grateful,” Gatutura said.
He emphasized that like everyone else, artists have financial responsibilities and must take up legitimate opportunities to sustain themselves.
“We have bills to pay, families to feed, and people who depend on us. No one is just handing out money – we offer our services in return. Music, like any other profession, is a business.”
He also clarified that his appearance at government functions should not be interpreted as political alignment.
“I have fans from all walks of life, and it’s my job to entertain everyone without discrimination. Just because I attend one event doesn’t mean I’m for or against the other side. Jose Gatutura is a neutral artist. I go where I’m needed – weddings, ruracios, government or opposition events, clubs, public gatherings – all of them. Artists shouldn’t be restricted to certain spaces. We don’t have payslips – performances are how we earn our living.”
