Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, has confirmed the resignation of popular Mugithi musician Samuel Muchoki, better known as Samidoh, from the National Police Service (NPS). This announcement comes after a series of allegations and controversies surrounding Samidoh’s actions, including neglecting his duties and his involvement in political activity.
Samidoh’s Resignation from NPS
During an interview on August 20, 2025, IG Kanja addressed the resignation of the Mugithi artist who had been serving under the Administration Police Service. Samidoh’s resignation was officially accepted on July 20, 2025, after a period of tension between him and his superiors in the NPS.
“We accepted his resignation letter, and I can tell you that he is free to do the things he wishes to do,” IG Kanja stated, confirming Samidoh’s departure from the force.
Controversy and Political Allegations
Samidoh’s resignation follows several months of public scrutiny and allegations of neglecting his police duties. The turning point came on May 16, 2025, when a video surfaced of Samidoh performing at a bar. During the performance, he led revelers in chanting the slogan “Wantam,” which is associated with anti-President William Ruto sentiments. The phrase, popularized by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, was perceived as a politically charged message against President Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027.
The NPS, under its Service Standing Orders (SSO), prohibits its officers from engaging in political activities, which led to Samidoh’s transfer from his position at the Central Region Police Headquarters in Nairobi to the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) in Gilgil, Nakuru County, on May 18, 2025. This transfer was seen by many as a disciplinary measure in response to the political activity.
Samidoh’s Desertion and Legal Battle
Things escalated when Samidoh was accused of deserting his post in Gilgil after he failed to report to his new assignment. In June 2025, the NPS issued an arrest warrant for Samidoh over the desertion charges. However, Samidoh denied the allegations and produced an official travel-clearance letter dated April 25, 2025, which had been signed by the Inspector General, granting him permission to travel to the United States between May 20 and June 9, 2025, for a private visit.
The High Court intervened in July 2025, granting Samidoh anticipatory bail to prevent his arrest over the desertion claims. As part of the bail conditions, Samidoh was required to surrender his passport, which was part of his legal effort to shield himself from further disciplinary action from the NPS.
Samidoh’s Future and the NPS’s Position
With Samidoh’s resignation now confirmed, he is free to pursue his personal interests, including his music career, without the constraints of his police duties. However, his departure has raised questions about the relationship between Kenya’s police force and its officers’ involvement in public life and politics.
IG Kanja’s statement indicated that the NPS has addressed the issues related to Samidoh’s conduct, but he remains committed to maintaining discipline and professionalism within the service.
Conclusion:
Samidoh’s resignation marks the end of an era for the Mugithi artist, who had been juggling his police duties with his music career. The controversy surrounding his resignation highlights the challenges faced by public figures who are also in positions of authority, particularly when they engage in political activities. The IG’s confirmation of Samidoh’s resignation clears the path for the musician to focus fully on his career and personal pursuits.
