Samidoh officially resigns from Police Service

By Newsflash Writer

Mugithi star Samuel Muchoki, better known by his stage name Samidoh, is now free to fully focus on his music career—or even try his hand in politics—after officially leaving the police service.

The National Police Service has confirmed that it accepted his resignation, ending his tenure as a Police Constable. He had been under scrutiny over allegations of deserting duty. Samidoh ceased being a police officer on July 20, having previously served under the Administration Police Service.

“We accepted his resignation letter, and I can confirm that he is free to pursue whatever he wishes, said Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja.

Trouble over political slogan

Before quitting, Samidoh had found himself in trouble with his superiors after a video circulated of him singing with fans to the “wantam” chant. The slogan, derived from “one-term,” is used by critics of President William Ruto who vow to block his re-election. Senior officials at Jogoo House were displeased, citing police regulations that strictly bar officers from political involvement.

Commanders argued that Samidoh had violated standing orders and consequently transferred him from the regular police to the AP Anti-Stock Theft Unit in Gilgil. He was also expected to face disciplinary proceedings for alleged desertion of duty.

Resignation was one of the options available to him when the accusations were raised.

Court battle over desertion

Last month, the singer sought anticipatory bail in the High Court to prevent arrest or detention over desertion claims. The court granted his request, noting that a warrant of arrest had been issued against him. Samidoh insisted that his case was politically motivated, arguing that his arrest was driven by his views and criticism of government, disguised as desertion charges.

Had he remained in service and been found culpable, police chiefs could have fined him, issued a warning, or dismissed him.

That decision would have been reviewed by the Deputy IG in charge of the AP before being forwarded to the Inspector-General for ratification and communication to the National Police Service Commission.

His resignation, however, brought the process to an abrupt end.

On May 28, when contacted about his transfer, he had said: “I am in a place that I can’t speak. I will comment later.” He never followed up.

Tour abroad and political backlash

The musician, who had just returned from a US tour, has consistently denied claims of desertion. On June 10, he presented a letter in court signed by Mathew Kutoh, Principal Deputy to the IG, which granted him official clearance to travel abroad from May 20 to June 9, 2025.

“Travel clearance is hereby granted to the above-named officer to travel to the United States of America for a private visit,” the letter partly read.

Before his transfer, Samidoh and several Mt Kenya musicians had visited Deputy President Kithure Kindiki at his Karen residence on May 23. Their visit sparked criticism, with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua accusing them of betraying the Mt Kenya community. Gachagua even called for a boycott of their music and urged entertainment venues to stop hosting them.

However, Prof Kindiki defended the artists, saying they had sought government support to dismantle exploitative cartels in the creative sector and push for fair pay.