IG Kanja Accepts Samidoh’s Resignation from National Police Service
Celebrated Mugithi artist Samuel Muchoki, popularly known as Samidoh, has officially resigned from the National Police Service (NPS) after 12 years in uniform.
The resignation, confirmed by Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja, ends months of tension between the singer and the service. In his resignation letter, Samidoh said he wanted to dedicate his time fully to his music career. His exit also effectively cancels earlier plans by the NPS to charge him with desertion of duty.
In recent years, Samidoh has frequently clashed with police leadership over his dual commitments. He was accused of abandoning his post, especially after a viral video captured him performing with fans chanting “wantam” a slogan popularized by critics of President William Ruto.
Police rules strictly forbid officers from engaging in political activity, and senior commanders were reportedly unhappy with the musician’s involvement in politically sensitive events.
As a result, Samidoh was transferred from the regular police to the Administration Police Anti-Stock Theft Unit in Gilgil and posted to Baragoi in Baringo. However, instead of reporting, he left for the United States for a series of music shows.
Last month, the High Court granted Samidoh anticipatory bail to stop his arrest on desertion charges. The court noted that a warrant of arrest had already been issued.
Samidoh told the court that the accusations were politically motivated, claiming they were intended to silence his criticism of government. He also produced a letter signed by Deputy IG Mathew Kutoh, which showed he had been cleared to travel to the US between May 20 and June 9, 2025.
Had he remained in service and been found guilty of desertion, police chiefs could have fined, warned, or dismissed him, subject to review by the Deputy IG and approval by the National Police Service Commission.
Beyond his police duties, Samidoh has often found himself in the spotlight over his marriage, political associations, and high-profile performances.
Before his transfer, he and other Mt Kenya artists visited Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki at his Karen residence, a move that drew sharp criticism from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who accused them of betraying the Mt Kenya community and even called for a boycott of their music.
Prof Kindiki defended the musicians, saying they were pushing for government support to fight cartels in the entertainment industry and to secure fair pay.
Later, during his US tour, Samidoh also met with former DP Rigathi Gachagua before returning to Kenya under the protection of the court order.
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