Popular singer Kevin Bahati Kioko has announced his entry into politics and will be vying for the Mathare Constituency parliamentary seat.
In his songs, Bahati has always looked back at his modest background in Mathare where he was born and bred. In some ways, recognition of his roots in Mathare foreshadowed later political aspirations. Before the announcement, Bahati released a song in collaboration with ODM leader Raila Odinga dubbed ‘fire’.
This time, he is repping for Mathare not only by music but also by politics. He has declared his interest in the Mathare constituency parliamentary race at Jubilee Party Headquarters where he was flanked by the member of parliament for Kieni constituency, Kanini Kega.
Mtoto wa Mama seeks to represent over 200,000 constituents across hoods like Huruma, Ngei, Mlango Kubwa, Kiamaiko, and Mabatini. He also takes on the task to unseat the current member of parliament, Mr. Steven Kariuki.
The race is of interest considering that housing and settlement, access to water and sanitation, and urban planning have been flashpoints in Mathare’s politics. It is also worthy of note that Mathare slums are one of Kenya’s largest informal settlements and a housing crisis.
Bahati might be going head to head with fellow controversial musician Willy Paul who has previously said he wants to run in Mathare.
Politics has been attracting many celebrities and names in Kenya’s pop culture. Other personalities who have made their political aspirations public include former radio presenter Jalang’o for Lang’ata MP, reggae radio host Njambi Koikai alias Fyah Mummah for Dagoretti MP and comedian MC Jessy for South Imenti parliamentary seat.
Does Bahati pass the test? Well, time will tell.