A fiery exchange erupted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) between the Kenya African National Union (KANU) and celebrated Kenyan rapper Octopizzo, sparking renewed debate about Kenya’s political past and the role of legacy institutions in current discourse.
KANU, once the dominant political force in Kenya, attempted to weigh in on a recent cultural controversy involving a performance by Butere Girls. In a symbolic post, the party shared a proverb from the Butere community, saying: “A leader who tries to silence the drums of dissent on an idea whose time has come soon hears only the echo of his own downfall.” The tweet was widely seen as a critique aimed at current efforts to stifle artistic expression, possibly referencing a controversial drama piece.
However, this move didn’t sit well with Octopizzo, who responded with sharp criticism, questioning KANU’s credibility to speak on such matters. Reacting to the party’s post, he rhetorically questioned their sudden reappearance in public debate, highlighting the historical injustices associated with their regime.
Octopizzo, known not only for his music but also his activism, didn’t hold back. He reminded the public that under KANU’s rule—particularly during the 24-year presidency of Daniel arap Moi—the country endured systemic repression. He accused the party of brutally silencing dissenting voices, especially those within the arts. According to him, the regime even went as far as destroying entire archives of politically conscious music in a bid to erase opposition and alternative narratives.
He condemned KANU’s recent attempts to position itself as a moral authority, calling the move hypocritical and historically tone-deaf. “You enabled, orchestrated, and covered up the deaths of innocent children,” he wrote. “Your legacy is one of repression, bloodshed, and brutal erasure… For you to now emerge and attempt to gaslight the nation… is not just shameless. It is disgusting.”
KANU responded by acknowledging its past but dismissed the musician’s involvement in the debate. Their post read, “KANU will not attempt to run away from its past and history. But today, we have a bigger fish to fry. For now, panda kitanda ama uingie studio.” The statement appeared to mock Octopizzo, suggesting he stick to making music.
The exchange has stirred public sentiment, with many divided between those who support the artist’s call for historical accountability and others who feel political parties, even those with a tainted past, should be allowed to participate in national conversations. It also reignited discussion on how Kenya’s past continues to influence present-day politics and cultural expression.
Amid the drama, Octopizzo also made headlines for showcasing a luxurious Range Rover valued at KSh 45 million, drawing admiration and envy from fans online. The vehicle’s sleek design and lavish interior turned heads on social media, showing the rapper’s taste for high-end lifestyle even as he remains vocal on serious national issues.
The confrontation between KANU and Octopizzo serves as a stark reminder of Kenya’s unresolved tensions with its political past and the ongoing battle over who gets to shape public memory and national dialogue.
