IG Kanja Accepts Samidoh’s Resignation
Popular Mugithi artist Samuel Muchoki, better known as Samidoh, has officially resigned from the National Police Service (NPS) after 12 years in uniform.
The resignation, confirmed by Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja, ends months of tension between the singer and the police force. Samidoh explained in his resignation letter that he wanted to fully dedicate his time to his music career.
His exit also cancels earlier plans by the NPS to charge him with desertion of duty.
Controversy and Police Wrangles
In recent years, Samidoh has been at the center of public controversies involving his marriage, political associations, and police duties. The NPS had accused him of abandoning his post, especially after a viral video showed him singing with fans to the “wantam” chant — a slogan used by critics of President William Ruto.
Police rules forbid officers from engaging in political activities, and senior officials were unhappy with Samidoh’s involvement. He was later transferred from the regular police to the AP Anti-Stock Theft Unit in Gilgil and posted to Baringo. However, instead of reporting, he left for the United States for a series of music shows.
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Legal Battle
Last month, Samidoh secured anticipatory bail from the High Court to stop his arrest over desertion claims. The court noted that a warrant of arrest had already been issued. Samidoh insisted that the accusations were politically motivated and aimed at silencing his government criticism.
Had he stayed in service and been found guilty, police chiefs could have fined him, warned him, or dismissed him. The decision would then have been reviewed by the Deputy IG and forwarded to the National Police Service Commission for approval.
Official Clearance and Political Ties
In court, Samidoh presented a letter signed by Deputy IG Mathew Kutoh, showing he had been officially cleared to travel to the US between May 20 and June 9, 2025.
Before his transfer, he and other Mt Kenya artists had visited Deputy President Kithure Kindiki at his Karen home, sparking criticism from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Gachagua accused them of betraying the Mt Kenya community and even called for a boycott of their music.
Prof Kindiki defended the musicians, saying they were seeking government support to fight cartels in the entertainment industry and demand fair pay.
Samidoh later met Gachagua during his US tour before returning to Kenya under the protection of court bail.
IG Kanja Accepts Samidoh’s Resignation
