Kenyan artist Octopizzo has announced a postponement of his highly anticipated album release in a bold gesture of solidarity with the Nane Nane protesters. The multi-award-winning rapper and humanitarian took to his X account to share the news, expressing his dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the recent Toi Market fire. This incident, which affected over 2,000 traders, has been a significant point of contention, with many questioning the government’s response and readiness in emergencies.
Originally slated for August 8, 2024, Octopizzo’s eighth studio album release has been put on hold indefinitely. In his social media post, Octopizzo took a direct jab at the government, highlighting the delay in dispatching fire trucks to Toi Market. His post read: “Maji ya Kuzima Toi Market ilikosa for hours! Acha tuone kesho kama maji itakosa kwa ile gender reveal truck hao utuchapa Nayo #Nane Nane” (“There were no fire trucks sent to Toi Market for hours! Let’s wait and see if tomorrow the water canon trucks that they use to disperse us will be available”). This comment reflects his frustration with the perceived negligence in addressing the needs of the affected traders.
Octopizzo’s decision underscores his commitment to using his platform to highlight and protest issues of social justice. By postponing his album release, he aims to draw attention to the systemic problems that the Toi Market fire has exposed and to stand in solidarity with those advocating for change.
In a similar vein, singer Karun has also made a significant decision in response to the ongoing protests. She announced on her X.com account that her AnuEp live listening party, which was set for August 9, 2024, will be postponed. Karun expressed her excitement about performing the new set and the added vocal layers but cited concerns for the safety and security of everyone involved in the event as the reason for the postponement. “I’m so excited to perform this set for you, we’ve worked the new songs into a beautiful full band set and added vocal layers 💅✨ for the first time,” Karun wrote. “In light of tomorrow’s peaceful protest and with concern for the safety and security of everyone involved, I regret to inform you that we must postpone the À nu EP launch event.”
Karun’s decision to reschedule the event highlights a growing trend among artists and public figures in Kenya who are using their influence to support social causes and respond to current events. The new date for Karun’s event has been set for Sunday, August 18, 2024.
The actions of both Octopizzo and Karun reflect a broader movement within the Kenyan artistic community, where individuals are increasingly using their platforms to address pressing social issues. This trend underscores a growing sense of responsibility among artists to contribute to societal change and advocate for justice.
As the protests continue and public scrutiny of the government’s response to crises like the Toi Market fire persists, it will be interesting to see how other public figures and artists respond. The postponements of Octopizzo’s and Karun’s events serve as a poignant reminder of the power of solidarity and the impact that public figures can have in amplifying the voices of those demanding change.
Both artists have promised to provide updates on new dates for their events once the situation stabilizes, and their decisions have resonated with many who view these acts of solidarity as crucial in the fight for justice and accountability.
