Ben Githae Apologises to Kenyans After Backlash Over State House Visit
However, the meeting was widely condemned online, with many accusing the musicians of engaging in political PR instead of standing with struggling artists and youth.
Singer Ben Githae. Photo/Githae.
By Robert Assad
Popular Kikuyu musician Ben Githae has issued a public apology to Kenyans—especially Gen Z—following heavy criticism over his recent visit to State House.
Speaking during a radio interview on Thursday, June 19, Githae admitted he had faced weeks of intense backlash, commonly referred to in Kenyan slang as “greetings”—a term for overwhelming criticism through messages and calls targeting perceived betrayals.
“I surrender. I don’t want any more greetings—you’ve greeted me enough. If I’ve wronged you in any way, I sincerely apologise,” Githae said.
The singer, along with fellow Kikuyu artists Karangu Muraya and Samidoh, met with President William Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki in early May to discuss ways to support the music industry.
However, the meeting was widely condemned online, with many accusing the musicians of engaging in political PR instead of standing with struggling artists and youth.
The backlash reflects growing online activism, largely driven by Gen Z, who continue to demand accountability from public figures. Social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has become a powerful space for civic expression, where celebrities seen as aligning with unpopular government initiatives are quickly “canceled” and flooded with ‘greetings’.
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